Florida Caladium – Red Ruffle – M Size

Description

🌸 Caladium Care Guide

Caladiums are tropical beauties known for their vibrant, heart-shaped leaves. Whether grown in gardens or pots, they add stunning color to shady spaces. Here’s how to keep them happy and thriving:

🪴 Planting Tips

• Best Time to Plant: After the last frost, when daytime temperatures stay above 21°C (70°F).
• Where to Plant: Choose shady or partially shaded areas. They love warm, humid spots.
• Soil: Use well-draining soil. If water stays after rain, mix in compost or organic matter to improve drainage.
• Spacing: Plant tubers 2 inches deep and 8–12 inches apart, with the “eye” or growing point facing up.

☀️ Light Requirements

• Ideal Light: Caladiums prefer filtered sunlight, bright indirect light, or partial shade.
• In Hot Climates: Full shade is best to prevent leaf burn.

💧 Watering

• Keep Soil Moist: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy.
• Avoid Overwatering: Let the top inch of soil dry slightly between waterings.
• Tip: Use mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Warm Weather Lovers: They thrive in temperatures above 21°C.
• Humidity: High humidity is ideal. Mist the leaves or place near other plants to increase moisture in the air.

🌱 Fertilizing

• Feed Monthly: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to early autumn).
• Avoid Overfeeding: Too much fertilizer can cause leaf damage.

🍂 Dormancy & Storage

• End of Season: In cooler climates, Caladiums go dormant in autumn.
• Storing Tubers: Dig them up before the first frost, let them dry, and store in a cool, dry place until spring.

🐛 Common Issues