The caladiums are colorful plants. They can have red, green, or white variegated, mottled, or veined leaves. The colors of the leaves beautify every room. You have to be careful, however, because caladiums are not easy beginner-friendly plants. We will show you what to look out for in terms of care so that you can enjoy your Kaladium for a long time.
Origin
Caladiums, also known as buns, originally come from the tropical rain forests of Central and South America. The leaves are variegated and can have different patterns. They are very thin and fragile. A special feature is that this is a tuberous plant. In addition, the Kaladium goes through a certain cycle throughout the year. When you buy a caladium plant, in most cases you will get an inconspicuous bulb. This is in its dormant phase. In this state, it does not require water and must be stored in a dry place.
Earth
In the spring you have to plant the tuber. Coconut soil is best for this. It holds water well, but not too much so that waterlogging cannot occur. In addition, it is low in nutrients. Too many nutrients in the soil can damage the tuber. You can add more nutrients afterwards by fertilizing. The right care for your Kaladium is the FARBIO® organic fertilizer for green plants . It supports and strengthens your plant with important nutrients, which are essential for intensive leaf green and healthy growth of all plant parts.
Pour
Start watering the bulb slowly, about once a week, until it starts to sprout and the first leaves appear. From then on, the caladium plant needs water at least twice a week. The soil should always be slightly moist. If it doesn't get enough water, the leaves start to wither straight away and if there's too much water, the tuber starts to rot. As said, it is not a simple plant, but a little diva.
Light
As soon as the leaves appear, you need to put your Kaladium in a light spot. This should not have direct sunlight, otherwise the sensitive leaves will burn and turn brown. If the location is too dark, the leaves no longer appear brightly colored, but dull. That is then the sign for you to put her in a brighter place before she dies.
humidity
In order for the chickweed to thrive, it needs the same humidity as in its homeland, the tropics. It is best to place a humidifier next to your plant. Otherwise, regular spraying of your plant also works. But never spray directly on the leaves, as this can snap them off. If your Kaladium's leaves are turning brown and dry, they need more humidity.
hibernate
In the fall, the leaves begin to turn brown and die off. These leaves just drain energy, so trim them off so your plant can focus on the leaves that are still alive. Less leaves means less water is needed. Once all of the leaves have died, stop watering the soil. The tuber is now in a dormant phase, almost in hibernation. Put the pot, with the bulb in the ground, in a cooler spot until spring. From then on, the complete cycle starts all over again.
