Caladium Florida Bicolor – Tuber

Selling size: A Tuber

To keep your Caladium florida bicolor thriving and showing off its vibrant foliage,

Here’s a guide to Caladium Florida Bicolor’s care:

Light:

• Indoors, it prefers indirect bright light or moderate shade. An east or north-facing window with filtered light is ideal. A very sunny window can work if you use a sheer curtain to diffuse the intensity.
• Outdoors, it also thrives in partial shade. Consider planting it under a leafy tree canopy or near an east-facing wall where it receives gentle morning sun but is protected from harsh afternoon rays.
• Some newer cultivars can tolerate more sun, but generally, avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the delicate leaves. If the leaves start to look brown and crispy, even with regular watering, it’s likely getting too much sun. Move container plants to a shadier spot or find a more shaded location in your garden.
• In shade, the leaf colors tend to be more vibrant.

Water:

• During the growing season (spring and summer), water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Never allow the plant to completely dry out, as this can cause the leaves to yellow and drop.
• When new leaves appear, resume regular watering.
• Container-grown outdoor caladiums might need daily watering during peak summer heat.
• In garden beds, you can water less frequently if you apply a layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture.
• As fall temperatures cool and the leaves start to yellow, gradually reduce watering to allow the tubers to enter dormancy.
• During winter dormancy, if you leave the tubers in the soil, stop watering and let them stay dry until spring.

Soil:

• Plant your Caladium florida bicolor in a rich, well-draining potting mix.
• For outdoor planting, ensure the garden soil is also well-draining. If you have heavy clay soil, consider growing caladiums in containers or raised beds.
• A slightly acidic soil pH between 5.5 and 6.2 is ideal.
• Adding organic matter like compost or peat moss can improve drainage and soil richness.

Temperature and Humidity:

• Caladium florida bicolor is a tropical plant and loves warm temperatures. Aim for daytime temperatures between 21-24°C (70-75°F) and nighttime temperatures between 15-18°C (60-65°F).
• Avoid temperatures below 15°C (60°F), as this can stunt growth. Temperatures below 7°C (45°F) can damage the plant.
• It thrives in high humidity, similar to its native tropical environment. You can increase humidity by:
  • Using a humidifier.
  • Regularly misting the plant with a spray bottle (on a mist setting).
  • Placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water (ensure the bottom of the pot is above the water line).
• Avoid placing your caladium near heating or cooling vents, as they can blow dry air and dehydrate the plant.

Fertilizer:

• During the active growing season (spring to late summer), fertilize once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.
• Avoid fertilizing in the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
• Be cautious with fertilization, as excessive amounts can affect the leaf colors, sometimes making them more green and less vibrant.

Dormancy:

• Caladium florida bicolor is a tuberous perennial that naturally goes dormant in the fall or winter as daylight hours shorten and temperatures cool. The leaves will start to yellow and die back.
• Allow the foliage to die back completely. You can then cut off the dry leaves.
• You have two options for overwintering the tubers:
  • Leave them in the pot: Stop watering and store the pot in a cool, dry, and dark place with temperatures around 13°C (55°F).
  • Dig them up: Gently lift the tubers from the soil, brush off any excess soil, and allow them to air dry for a few days. Then, store them in a dry medium like peat moss or vermiculite in a cool, dark place at around 13°C (55°F).
• In the spring, when temperatures warm up again (soil temperature above 21°C or 70°F), you can replant the tubers and resume watering.

Pests and Diseases:

• Generally, caladiums are relatively pest-resistant. However, they can occasionally be bothered by aphids, spider mites, thrips, and whiteflies. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap.
• The tubers can be susceptible to fungal diseases, especially in cool, wet conditions. Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent these issues.

Toxicity:

• All parts of the caladium plant contain calcium oxalates, which are toxic if ingested. Keep them away from children and pets.

  

By providing the right conditions, your Caladium florida bicolor will reward you with its stunning and unique foliage throughout the warmer months.