Caladiums are colorful plants. They can have red, green or white variegated, mottled or veined leaves. The splendor of the colors of the leaves beautifies any room. However, you have to be careful because caladiums are not easy beginner-friendly plants. We'll show you what you need to pay attention to when caring for it so that you can enjoy your Kaladium for a long time.
Origin
Caladiums, also known as Buntwurz, originally come from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. The leaves are colorful and can have different patterns. They are very thin and fragile. A special feature is that this is a tuberous plant. In addition, the caladium goes through a specific cycle throughout the year. If you buy a caladium plant, in most cases you will get an inconspicuous tuber. This is in its resting phase. In this state it does not require water and must be stored in a dry place.
Earth
You have to plant the tuber in spring. Coconut soil is best suited for this. It holds water well, but not too much so that waterlogging cannot occur. It is also low in nutrients. Too many nutrients in the soil can damage the tuber. You can add more nutrients later through fertilization. The right care for your caladium 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 parts of the plant.
Pour
Start watering the tuber slowly, about once a week, until it begins to sprout and the first leaves grow. From then on, the caladium plant needs water at least twice a week. The soil should always be slightly moist. If it gets too little water, the leaves will immediately begin to wilt and if there is too much water, the tuber will begin to rot. As I said, it is not a simple plant, but a little diva.
Light
As soon as the leaves appear, you need to place your caladium in a bright location. This should not be exposed to 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 rather drab. This is then the sign for you to move it to a brighter place before it dies.
humidity
In order for the Buntwurz to thrive, it needs humidity like in its homeland, the tropics. It's best to place a humidifier next to your plant. Otherwise, spraying your plant regularly also works. But never spray directly on the leaves, as this can cause them to break. If your caladium's leaves become brown and dry, they need more humidity.
Overwinter
From autumn onwards the leaves slowly start to turn brown and die off. These leaves just drain energy, so cut them off so your plant can focus on the leaves that are still alive. Fewer leaves also means less water is needed. Once all the leaves have died, you should stop watering the soil. The tuber is now in a resting phase, essentially in hibernation. Place the pot, with the bulb in the ground, in a cooler location until spring. From then on the entire cycle starts again from the beginning.
