Caladiums are tropical plants which come in a variety of colors and combinations. They are native to the banks of the Amazon River in South America. Caladiums are wonderful in pots, hanging baskets, and in mass plantings in the landscape. There are three main colors: red, pink, and white. Each type of caladium has its own unique and interesting mix of two or more of these colors.
With their vibrant, colorful leaves, caladiums make a stunning addition to outdoor garden beds and containers. Proper planting depth is important for caladium bulbs to establish successfully and display their unique foliage to the fullest. Follow some simple guidelines to learn exactly how deep to plant your caladium bulbs.
Caladium Bulb Basics
Caladium bulbs are tubers that sprout into lush green leaves marked with splashes, spots, veins or shimmery patterns in shades of white, pink, red and green They are summer-loving plants that flourish with heat. Once temperatures drop in fall, the foliage dies back and the bulbs go dormant until the following season.
Caladium bulbs vary in size from small buds to jumbo tubers over 6 inches wide Bigger bulbs will produce more robust plants faster Bulbs sprout best when planted at the proper depth according to their size,
Recommended Planting Depth
Most caladium bulbs thrive best when planted 2-3 inches deep in the soil. This provides enough cover for the tender developing roots and shoots. Specific planting depth guidelines based on bulb size:
- Small bulbs under 2 inches wide: Plant 1-2 inches deep
- Medium bulbs around 2-4 inches wide: Plant 2-3 inches deep
- Large bulbs over 4 inches wide: Plant 3-4 inches deep
- Jumbo bulbs over 6 inches wide: Plant 4-5 inches deep
If bulbs are planted too shallowly, the soil can dry out too quickly and damage new roots and shoots. Planting too deeply prevents proper sprouting and emergence of foliage. Measure bulb size and follow the depth guidelines closely for best results.
Preparing the Planting Area
Pick a site with rich, moist, well-draining soil. Caladiums thrive in partial sun to partial shade exposure. Mix in compost, leaf mold or peat moss to improve moisture retention. Water the soil well before planting.
Space caladium bulbs 6-12 inches apart depending on their ultimate size. Allow more room for jumbo varieties. Dig planting holes or trenches twice the depth of each bulb.
How to Plant the Bulbs
Plant caladium tubers with the top facing up. The end with a depressed bud scar should point toward the soil surface. Place bulbs in their holes with the proper soil depth over the tops according to bulb size.
Backfill the holes with surrounding soil, pressing gently around each bulb to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting. Add a 2-4 inch layer of mulch over the bed to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Post-Planting Care
Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy while bulbs root and leaves unfurl. Water whenever the top few inches become dry. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer once foliage is actively growing. Remove weeds promptly.
Lift any foliage or flowers that flop over with supports or plant rings. This prevents broken stems and keeps attractive leaves displayed upright. Stop fertilizing 6 weeks before your average first fall frost so plants can harden off.
Curing & Storing Bulbs for Winter
After the foliage dies back with cold weather, carefully dig up caladium bulbs. Remove all soil and cut off dead leaves and stems. Rinse off bulbs and air dry them for 1-2 days.
Pack cured bulbs in dry peat, vermiculite, or sawdust. Store them in mesh bags or cardboard boxes in a cool 60-70°F spot. Keep bulbs dry and free of frost or freezing until ready to replant the following season.
Troubleshooting Growth Issues
If caladium plants fail to emerge or have stunted, distorted growth, the bulbs may have been planted incorrectly. Here are some common issues and solutions:
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No sprouting: Bulbs planted too deeply. Reposition higher in soil.
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Weak, spindly growth: Bulbs planted too shallowly. Replant a few inches deeper.
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Curled, twisted leaves: Inadequate moisture. Water more frequently.
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Discolored leaves: Improper pH. Test and amend soil to reach 5.5-6.5 range.
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Leaf edges browning: Salt buildup from fertilizer. Flush soil and reduce fertilizing.
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Holes in leaves: Insect damage. Treat with neem oil or remove pests.
With proper planting depth matched to bulb size, caladiums will thrive and put on a spectacular colorful foliage display all season long. Just be sure to lift bulbs before fall frosts and store them correctly so you can enjoy their unique leaves for summers to come.
Where to plant caladiums
Caladiums thrive outdoors during the warmer months and add a lush, exotic touch to your yard or garden. Most caladiums do best in shade or partial shade, but some types can handle more sun (see caladium catalog page) and can be planted where there isn’t much shade. They are a great way to add color to shady areas. They are often used as border plants, alongside homes, or in beds. They may also be used in window boxes and make stunning patio container plants.
When to Plant Caladium Bulbs
Caladiums are tropical tubers and MUST be warm to flourish. You should not plant your caladiums until the soil is at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit high. Cool weather will significantly delay germination. See the recommended planting date for your area on the map to the left.
How to grow caladiums from bulbs – De eyeing caladium bulbs – Planting caladium
FAQ
How many caladium bulbs do you plant together?
What month do you plant caladium bulbs?
When should caladium bulbs be planted?
Planting time for these plants depends upon your climate. As a general rule, you shouldn’t plant tubers until the soil reaches about 70°F (21°C). In mild climates, you can put caladiums in the ground in early spring. For colder climates, wait until May 1st to plant your bulbs. Dig a hole two inches deeper than your bulb.
How do you plant caladium bulbs?
To plant caladium bulbs, choose a location with well-draining soil and partial shade, ideally where they’ll receive indirect sunlight. Plant the bulbs in spring when the soil has warmed up, about 2 inches deep with the knobby side (the eye) facing up. Space them about 8 to 12 inches apart to give each plant enough room to grow.
How deep should a Caladium bulb be buried?
Autumn Hilliard-Knapp of Perfect Plants Nursery recommends digging a hole approximately 2–3 times the size of the caladium bulb. ‘The exact depth may vary depending on the bulb size, but a general guideline is to plant them about two inches deep.’
How far apart should caladium bulbs be planted?
Maintain a distance between bulbs: When planting multiple caladium bulbs in a pot, make sure to maintain a distance of 6 to 8 inches between each bulb. This spacing allows the plants to grow and spread without competing for resources. Consider pot size: The size of the pot will also determine the spacing between bulbs.