Caldiums

Caladium

Includes cultivars of the bicolour range including ‘Casey’ and ‘Kelly

General care.

  •  Place in bright indirect light but avoid prolonged periods of direct sunlight as this will scorch the delicate leaves.
  • when the top third of soil has dried out, be careful not to over water.
  • Preferring high humidity.
  • Warm! Above 20° wherever possible and ideally not below 15°.
  • Soil. These plants can be thirsty so a soil with good water retention is preferred but just be careful not to over water.

Important note – These plants can die back in the autumn if the temperature drops lower than their preferred average.  If this does happen, do not panic, you haven’t lost a plant!  It has simply gone into hibernation.  Ensure the tubers are dry and kept in a warm place and they will come back in the spring when temperatures begin to warm.

Caladiums are not necessarily difficult plants to keep, in fact, they will thrive if their environmental aspects are right.  However, there are a few common issues that will result in their premature demise.

These include.

  • Fungal pathogens. (infections that can destroy the tuber and damage the soil) – These are very easy to monitor, avoid and control when Caladiums are kept as indoor plants rather than outside. The main cause of this is overwatering and low temperatures.
  • Root rot. One of the most common issues with the Caladium.  Caused by over watering and poor drainage.  Look out for yellowing and browning leaves and a smell coming from the soil.  The bulb can be salvaged, just remove from the soil and trim off any rotten roots and allow to completely dry out.
  • Brown, soft, wilting leaves are most likely to be an overwatering issue! However, over fertilizing and low temperatures would also cause these defects.