Caladiums are popular tropical plants known for their vibrant, heart-shaped foliage, often called “Angel Wings.” Growing from tubers, they bring dramatic color to shaded spaces with striking combinations of red, pink, white, and green patterns. Successful cultivation requires precise planting to ensure the tuber establishes properly. This guide details the necessary environmental preparation, exact planting depth, and immediate care.
Setting Up the Ideal Planting Environment
Planting Caladium tubers at the correct time is paramount, as they are highly sensitive to cold. Wait until all danger of spring frost has passed before planting outdoors. The soil temperature is the most significant factor, needing to be consistently between 65°F and 70°F. Planting into cooler soil risks the tuber rotting before it can sprout.
The ideal location offers filtered sunlight or bright, indirect light, such as morning sun protected from intense afternoon heat. Most Caladium varieties will experience leaf scorch and fading color if exposed to harsh midday sun. The soil must be rich in organic matter and well-draining to prevent water from collecting around the tuber and causing decay. Incorporating compost or peat moss before planting will enrich the soil and improve drainage.
Proper Depth and Bulb Orientation
The recommended planting depth is generally 1 to 2 inches, measured from the top of the tuber to the soil surface. Smaller tubers may be planted closer to 1 inch, while larger tubers benefit from the full 2 inches of soil coverage. Planting too deeply can significantly delay the emergence of foliage or prevent the tuber from sprouting.
Correct orientation maximizes the plant’s initial energy expenditure. Caladium tubers have a distinct top and bottom. The top side is typically rough, bumpy, or knobby, featuring the “eyes” or growth points from which the leaves will sprout. This knobby side must face upward, while the smooth, slightly concave side should be placed facing down into the soil.
Many commercially sold tubers are painted white on the top to help gardeners easily identify the correct upward orientation. After placing the tuber at the correct depth, gently backfill the hole with prepared soil, ensuring the tuber remains oriented correctly. Proper spacing between tubers is necessary to accommodate the full size of the mature leaves, with 8 to 12 inches often recommended depending on the desired density.
Immediate Care for Emerging Caladiums
Once the tubers are settled in the soil, they require an immediate and thorough watering to settle the surrounding soil and initiate growth. After this initial soaking, maintain consistent, moderate moisture without allowing the soil to become waterlogged. The soil should remain moist to the touch, but soggy conditions quickly lead to tuber rot.
Patience is necessary following planting, as the emergence of the first leaves can take time. Expect new foliage to appear four to eight weeks after planting, depending on the soil temperature and variety. Once the leaves emerge, begin a feeding schedule using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer applied at half-strength. This application supports vigorous leaf growth throughout the warm season.