How to Plant and Care for Your Caladiums

When to Plant Your Caladiums

Plant Caladium bulbs in the spring, after the last frost has passed. Ensure that the outdoor temperature consistently exceeds 60°F, and the soil temperature reaches at least 65°F. If the weather is still too cold to plant outdoors or if you live in cooler regions, start your Caladiums indoors in a warm, moist environment until it’s safe to transfer them outdoors.

Where to Plant Your Caladiums

Caladiums thrive in containers with bright, indirect sunlight or in garden landscapes that offer partial shade. They are an excellent choice for adding vibrant color to shaded areas.

How to Plant Your Caladiums

Instead of using a shovel, we recommend using a Bulb Auger to plant your Caladiums. Dig a hole 1.5 to 2 inches deep, and for larger bulbs, plant one per square foot to give them enough space to grow.

Caring for Your Caladiums

How much sun, water, and fertilizer do they need?
Caladiums are sun-tolerant but generally require more watering as they receive more sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water your Caladiums early in the morning or late afternoon, and feed them with a little bone meal every month to promote healthy growth.

What Zones Can Caladiums Grow In?

Caladiums grow well in USDA zones 3 through 8 as annuals. In zones 9-11, they can survive as perennials, returning year after year. If you grow Caladiums in containers, you can bring them indoors during the winter or on colder nights to protect them from frost.

Are Caladiums Annuals or Perennials?

Caladiums are perennials in warmer climates, meaning they will come back year after year, adding color and beauty to your garden. In cooler zones, many gardeners treat them as annuals.

How Fast Do Caladiums Grow?

Caladiums are fast-growing plants, particularly when they receive adequate sunlight and water. You may see them sprouting in just a few weeks after planting!

How Tall and Wide Can Caladiums Grow?

Caladiums typically grow 1 to 2 feet tall and spread about 1 to 1.5 feet wide, making them perfect for brightening up any garden, patio, or landscape with their colorful foliage.