You can always start caladiums in pots indoors up to 4 weeks before the last frost in your area. Otherwise, you can just wait to plant them directly in the ground. [2] X Research source
Caladium sap may cause irritation if you have sensitive skin, so wear gardening gloves. Disinfect your knife with 70% rubbing alcohol before and after dividing the tubers so you don’t spread any bacteria or fungi. [4] X Research source
Leaves may not grow as tall after you damage the central eye, but your caladiums will look a lot fuller. If you leave the central bud or eye, leaves grow taller but the smaller buds won’t sprout.
Only a few caladium varieties, such as Fire Chief, Hearts Delight, Cherry Tart, and White Cap, can tolerate full sunlight throughout the entire day.
If you’re growing caladiums in containers, make sure the pots have drainage holes on the bottom so water can flow through them easily.
It might take a few treatments to fully amend your soil’s pH. After applying a treatment, run another test to check if you need to make any more adjustments.
Compacting the soil too much can prevent water from reaching it, so be careful not to press the soil down too hard.
If you’re growing caladiums in pots, stop watering as soon as you see water coming out from the drainage holes.
You should mulch your caladiums whether they’re planted in the ground or in pots.
Alternatively, you can use a timed-release 15-9-12 fertilizer that slowly provides nutrients for the next 6 months. Fertilizer can damage or kill caladium leaves if it comes into contact with them, so use caution while you’re applying it.
