Planting Caladium Bulbs Upside Down
Next water the plants frequently so that the soil stays moist but not soggy.
Planting caladium bulbs upside down. Plant right side up. Caladium bulbs are sold in various size grades based on the diameter of the bulb. Add a bit of bone meal to the hole before planting. If you re growing caladiums indoors keep them in a warm room with plenty of light until outside temperatures are warm enough to transplant.
As with other bulbs plant them smooth side down and eye side up. 4 13 96 host sue gray gives viewers tips on planting caladium bulbs. My dad and i once planted an entire garden upside down one fall and never saw a single flower in the spring. Water the bulbs after planting and mulch to preserve the soil.
Caladium bulbs have a rather smooth bottom side and knobby these are actually the eyes or growing points top side. Bigger bulbs yield more foliage go figure. Caladium bulbs should be planted with the eyes up hair to the air with approximately 1 2 of soil on top of them because the roots emerge from the top of the bulbs. Cover them with at least half an inch of soil but up to two inches.
Bulb size tips planting separations by bulb size yup it s true. Your bulbs should be planted. Generally the larger the bulb you purchase the better the performance as the bulb is the source of energy reserve for the plant therefore the larger. This is the opposite of tulips.
Plant caladium bulbs outside after all danger of frost has passed and daytime temperatures remain above 70 degrees. When you plant caladiums you should plant them about 4 to 6 inches 10 to 15 cm deep and 4 to 6 inches 10 to 15 cm apart. Plant them 2 3 deep and keep the spike if any showing a. Caladiums are very forgiving and even if you plant them upside down they will still grow for you just taking an extra week or two to find their way.
If you are unable to determine which side is the top do not fret the bulbs will grow fine even if you plant them upside down. To grow caladiums plant the tubers in a moist shady location at least 6 to 8 inches apart in well draining soil. Select a location in shade or part sun with a good rich moist organic soil. Though they will grow no matter which way you orient them planting with the top side up will provide you with the shortest sprouting time and the happiest plant.
Caladiums are tropical plants and cannot tolerate any frost and only emerge when the soil is warm. It is also a good way to know which direction to plant the bulb in though it will come up even if you sow it upside down.