Does the colorful caladium prefer shade or sun?

Caladium is a plant of the genus Caladium in the Araceae family. It is a very popular ornamental foliage plant. Its leaves are as beautiful as colorful oil paintings, and many people like to grow them. So does colorful taro prefer shade or sun? Let’s learn more about it below.

Does the colorful caladium prefer shade or sun?

Colored caladium has strong shade tolerance and can be placed in some cool places. However, it also needs light during the growth process. Only with sufficient light can its leaves grow colorful and bright. If there is insufficient light, the leaves will become darker and soft. In summer, be careful not to expose it to direct sunlight, otherwise the leaves will easily become soft and thin, which will affect its ornamental value. In spring and autumn, you can place it in a location with direct sunlight, which will make the color of the leaves fuller.

How to grow colorful taro well?

1. Watering

Colored caladium prefers a relatively humid maintenance environment. When watering in summer, wait until the surface of the potting soil is 2-3 cm dry before watering, and water thoroughly. In summer, you can often spray around the plant to increase the humidity. Note that it is around the plant, not directly on the leaves. If you spray directly on the leaves, too much residual moisture will be difficult to evaporate, which will cause problems.

2. Fertilization

Colored taro is a foliage plant. Applying nitrogen fertilizer during the growing season can make the plant grow rapidly. However, some colored taro have rich leaves, so applying nitrogen fertilizer will cause the leaves to fade in color, degenerate into green, or even turn white. It is not recommended to apply nitrogen fertilizer exclusively at any time. In spring and autumn, you can use a balanced compound fertilizer of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and sprinkle it directly on the surface of the potting soil. The nutrients can penetrate evenly when watering. In summer and winter, it is generally recommended to use a balanced slow-release fertilizer of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and sprinkle it directly on the surface of the potting soil. The fertilizer effect of the slow-release fertilizer is relatively slow and lasting.

3. Temperature

Colored caladium prefers a warm environment, and the most suitable growth temperature is 18°C ​​to 24°C. Avoid exposing the plants to temperatures below 15°C to prevent frost damage.

4. Pruning

If the leaves of the caladium are damaged or yellow, you can use scissors to trim off the affected parts. Regular pruning can also help keep the plant compact and attractive.

5. Notes

Colored caladium is sensitive to water quality, so it is best to use filtered or still water for watering. Also, avoid water sources that contain fluoride, as they may damage the caladium.

That’s it