Planting & Growing Tips

Soil temperature is an important consideration, as planting too early outdoors can cause tubers to rot. Nighttime temperatures should be CONSISTENTLY 65 degrees or warmer before planting outdoors. Caladium bulbs originated in the Amazon Basin, which is why they require and thrive in the warm summer day and night temperatures. These plants thrive in moist, well-drained soil and are generally happier in partial shade. Remember the amount of sun/shade exposure may change the color of the leaf produced. Ideally, caladiums should be planted in a partially shaded area for best color. Caladiums in shade can be taller in attempt to catch the light as opposed to caladiums in direct sunlight that don't have to work so hard.

Caladium bulbs should be planted about 2 inches under the soil. If you have no idea about top and bottom just plant it any which way and it will grow.

The following chart shows our recommended planting distances if you are planting a large bed. These spacing distances will typically result in a nice full bed with no gapping between plants. These same measurements also work for row planting.

Larger bulbs DO NOT guarantee larger leaves or taller plants, just more leaves in general.

Planting in pots:
                                4 inch pot:  one #1 or two #2's
                                6 inch pot:  two #1's  or four #2's
                                12 inch pot:  six #1's or twelve #2's

Caladiums will grow in most soil types. Caladiums are always the prettiest the first season and may not last for multiple seasons as those left in the ground or stored do not perform as well as fresh bulbs. Caladiums in general deteriorate every year and may be shorter and not as full, therefore were recommend adding to them with fresh bulbs yearly. Fertilizer, if needed should be applied lightly, but use caution as heavy nitrogen content is notorious for changing caladium colors. Caladiums like slightly acidic soils with an approximate Ph of 5.5-6.