1. Variety selection
When choosing a caladium variety, you need to consider the following factors:
- Purpose of cultivation: Caladium can be used as an ornamental crop. For this purpose, there are varieties with different leaf colors, including white, pink, red, purple and green.
- Plant size: Different varieties of caladium vary in plant size. There are varieties that reach a height of 30 cm, and varieties that reach a height of 1 m.
- Lighting: Caladium prefers semi-shaded places.
2. Soil preparation
Caladium is a moisture-loving plant, so for its cultivation it is necessary to choose loose and well-drained soils with a neutral or slightly alkaline reaction.
3. Landing
Caladium can be planted in open ground in the spring, when the soil temperature reaches +10 °C. The planting depth is 5-10 cm. The distance between plants is 20-30 cm.
4. Plant care
Caladium is a moisture-loving plant, so during the growing season it is necessary to regularly water the plants, preventing the soil from drying out. In hot and dry weather, watering is carried out daily.
5. Fertilizing: During the period of active plant growth, 2-3 fertilizing with mineral fertilizers is carried out. The first feeding is carried out in the phase of 3-4 true leaves, the second - in the budding phase, the third - in the flowering phase.
6. Weeding: Weeds must be regularly weeded so that they do not choke the plants.
7. Harvest
Caladium leaves can be harvested throughout the season. Leaves are cut with scissors or a sickle.
Additional Tips
- Caladium prefers semi-shaded places.
- Caladium is a moisture-loving plant, but regular watering promotes more intensive growth and development of plants.
- Caladium does not require frequent feeding. It is enough to apply fertilizer 2-3 times a season.