Growing Caladiums From Bulbs
Caladiums have proven to be excellent bedding plants for full shade to full sun.
Growing caladiums from bulbs. To keep them blooming fertilize your caladiums once per month during the growing season with a 5 10 10 fertilizer. Planting caladiums is very easy. Caladiums are known for their big heart shaped leaves that display amazing color combinations of white pink red and green. The plant also needs regular feeding to grow well and show off its beautiful vivid leaves.
Quality organic fertiliser will add strength to the caladium plant. Fertilize every six weeks with a 6 6 6 type fertilizer or slow. Plant caladium bulbs outside after all danger of frost has passed and daytime temperatures remain above 70 degrees. Caladiums will perform well in most any soil.
Their size depends on the variety. To grow caladiums plant the tubers in a moist shady location at least 6 to 8 inches apart in well draining soil. If the area puddles after a good rain you might want to look elsewhere to plant your bulbs. Plant the top of the bulb 1 1 2 to 2 inches below the surface with the eyes up.
These are plants that thrive in hot humid weather and that usually grow best in full to partial shade. T hese hardy plants just need a little warm soil and some occasional watering and fertilizer to provide vibrant colors all season long. We recently have decided to make our products available to the public directly from the farm. We ship you caladium bulbs and elephant ear bulbs direct from the farm in lake placid florida the caladium capitol of the world.
Planting and growing our classic caladium bulbs is a breeze. We have been growing quality caladiums on our farm for over 30 years. Caladiums are tropical plants and cannot tolerate any frost and only emerge when the soil is warm. Next water the plants frequently so that the soil stays moist but not soggy.
Caladiums like acid soils with an approximate ph of 4 5 5 5. Planting storing and growing instructions for caladium bulbs and elephant ear bulbs. Mulch around the planting and keep moist throughout the season. Bulbs may not last for multiple seasons in less than ideal soils but they will grow just fine for a single season even in hostile mediums.
For full sun tolerant varieties see individual variety pictures. To make it easier for these smaller buds to grow after planting caladium bulbs many gardeners find it helpful to lift out the large bud with a knife. The most important thing you need to take care when growing caladiums is that the soil has to be moist always. How to plant caladium bulbs.
Caladiums like well drained soil. If the soil is sandy mix in some peat moss to improve moisture retention. Care for caladium bulbs. Please check planting zone chart for ideal planting times.
For the most part each tuber has a large bud which is often surrounded by smaller ones.