The Caladiumalso known as variegated leaf or variegated root, is not just any houseplant – it’s a real eye-catcher! The colorful, heart- or arrow-shaped leaves in pink, white, green or red turn your home into a tropical jungle. But to keep your variegated leaf healthy for a long time, it needs some attention. Here you can find out everything you need to know about caladium care – from location to overwintering.
The right location for your Caladium
Do you want vibrant colors and beautiful patterns? Then it depends on the right location. The brighter the leaf coloration, the more light your Caladium needs – but please avoid direct sunlight! This will damage the leaves and cause them to fade. Temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees and high humidity are ideal. Use a saucer full of expanded clay and water to create a moist microclimate. Ventilate regularly to prevent mold from forming.
How to plant your caladium correctly
Regardless of whether you buy a tuber or a plant that has already sprouted, make sure it is well drained. A layer of expanded clay or clay shards in the pot prevents waterlogging. Use nutrient-poor, slightly acidic soil that retains moisture well. Place the bulb smooth side down in the soil and cover it lightly. Then water well and set up at around 25 degrees – the first leaves will soon appear.
Proper care for Caladium: Watering, fertilizing, pruning
During the growth phase from spring to fall, the variegated leaf loves regular watering. Always keep the substrate slightly moist, but avoid wet feet. Water with rainwater or decalcified tap water. Too much lime damages the plant! Every two weeks, your caladium will be happy to receive some liquid fertilizer for green plants – but please don’t give it too much nitrogen, otherwise it will lose its beautiful colors. Withered or dried leaves are best cut off immediately.
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How to overwinter your variegated foliage properly
In the fall, your Caladium slowly begins to go dormant. Now it is watered less and no longer fertilized – until the leaves wither. Then dig out the tuber, clean it and store it dry at around 20 degrees, for example in sand or expanded clay. Alternatively, you can leave the bulb in the pot, but make sure you keep it very dry! In March, wake it up again with a water bath and replant it.
A blaze of color with small demands
If you look after your Caladium properly, it will reward you with a blaze of color that will attract everyone’s attention. With the right location, regular watering and a little patience in winter, you can bring a little tropical vacation into your living room year after year. Just follow the basic rules – then your Caladium will become a colorful permanent companion.
Source: Plantura
