Why Grow Caladiums?

Caladiums bring a tropical feel to gardens, patios, and indoor spaces with their striking, heart-shaped leaves. Whether grown in containers, flower beds, or as houseplants, they offer vibrant color and easy maintenance.

• 🌿 Thrives in shade, brightening darker spaces.
• 💧 Low-maintenance once established.
• 🪴 Great for containers, flower beds, or houseplants.
• 🍃 Long-lasting foliage stays vibrant all summer.
• 🛡 Moderately resistant to deer & rabbits.

Looking for a bold, colorful plant with a tropical vibe? Caladiums are a perfect choice!

When to Plant Caladiums

Caladiums need warm soil to start growing. Planting too early in cool conditions can cause tubers to rot.

• 🌡 Outdoors: Wait until the soil temperature reaches 70°F and frost danger has passed.
• 🌱 Cooler climates (Zones 7 and colder): Start indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost and transplant when nights stay above 60°F.
• 🏡 Indoors: Can be planted anytime as long as they receive proper warmth and light.

Choosing the Right Growing Location

Caladiums prefer shade but can tolerate some sun.

• 🌤 Best in filtered sunlight or light afternoon shade.
• ☀️ Some sun-tolerant varieties handle full sun with extra watering.
• 🌳 Shade varieties do well in dappled light or morning sun with afternoon shade.

Pro Tip: The more sun exposure, the more water Caladiums will need.

Soil Preparation & Planting

• 🌱 Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Compost or peat moss can improve moisture retention.
• 🌿 Plant tubers 1-2 inches deep, knobby side up.
• 📏 Space them 8-12 inches apart to allow full foliage spread.

Container Growing: Use high-quality potting mix and a pot with drainage holes—Caladiums dislike soggy soil.

Watering & Humidity Needs

• 💦 Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• ☀️ Full-sun Caladiums need more frequent watering.
• 🌿 Boost humidity by grouping plants, using pebble trays, or misting.

Watch out for: Overwatering (causes rot) and underwatering (causes wilting).

Fertilizing for Healthy Growth

• 🌾 Apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
• 🌱 Slow-release fertilizers provide continuous feeding.
• 🚫 Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can make leaves overly green and dull colors.

Protecting Caladiums from Pests & Damage

• 🌀 Wind: Shelter plants from strong winds to prevent torn leaves.
• 🐜 Pests: Watch for aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips—treat early with insecticidal soap.
• 🛡 Fungal rot: Avoid soggy conditions by ensuring good drainage.
• 🐰 Wildlife: Deer and rabbits may nibble on Caladiums, so plant near resistant varieties if needed.

Ongoing Care & Maintenance

• 🍂 Remove old leaves to encourage fresh growth.
• 🌱 Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• 🌿 Group plants together for increased humidity.

Caladiums as Annuals vs. Perennials

Caladiums are usually grown as annuals, but in warmer regions, they can be overwintered as perennials.

• 🔥 Zones 9-11: Can stay in the ground year-round.
• ❄️ Zones 8 and colder: Dig up tubers in fall and store them indoors.

Overwintering Caladium Tubers

• 🍂 In fall, reduce watering as leaves die back.
• 🧹 Dig up tubers, shake off soil, and let them dry for a few days.
• 🏡 Store in peat moss or dry soil in a cool, ventilated space (50-60°F).
• 🌱 Replant in spring once the soil warms above 70°F.

Can Caladiums grow indoors year-round? Yes! Keep them in bright, indirect light and reduce watering in winter.

Caladiums in Containers

Caladiums make stunning container plants!

• 🌿 Pair with ferns, impatiens, or coleus for a shade-loving mix.
• 🪴 Combine with elephant ears for a bold, tropical contrast.
• 🌸 Add petunias or begonias for a sun-friendly combination.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're filling a shady garden bed, brightening up a patio with containers, or bringing a tropical touch indoors, Caladiums are a show-stopping choice. Their bold colors, low maintenance, and adaptability make them a favorite for gardeners of all levels.

With the right warmth, moisture, and care, Caladiums will thrive all season long—so why not add a pop of color to your space today?