Caladium bulbs like warm soil. A helpful guideline is to plant after your last frost, when the soil is consistently around 65–70°F.

• Warmer climates: Many gardeners plant in late March–April.
• Temperate climates: Late April through June is common.
• Short seasons: Start bulbs indoors 4–6 weeks early to get a head start.

Plant 1–2 inches deep with the eyes up, and space about 8–12 inches apart so foliage has room to fill in. Keep the soil evenly moist (not soggy) and provide shade to part shade. Timing can vary by microclimate, so local frost dates are a helpful guide.

Caladiums are tropical tubers that behave differently by climate.

• Warm zones (often USDA 9–11): They can act like perennials, going dormant and re-sprouting when warmth returns.
• Colder zones: They’re usually grown like annuals outdoors. Many gardeners lift and store bulbs for replanting the following spring.

Expect foliage to fade and the plant to rest as days shorten. If you’d like repeats next year in cooler areas, dig the bulbs before frost and store them dry in a warm, airy place. Results can vary with winter conditions and care, so checking local guidance for your area may be helpful.

Leaving caladium bulbs in the ground can work in mild, frost-free areas, but it’s risky where soil freezes.

• Frost-free climates: Allow leaves to yellow, then reduce watering so tubers dry down. Add 2–4 inches of mulch to help moderate soil temperatures and moisture.
• Freezing climates: Bulbs can rot or be damaged by cold. Dig them up before a hard frost and store indoors instead.

If you try in-ground overwintering at the edge of their range, well-drained soil and a protective mulch layer may help, but survival can vary year to year. Checking your USDA zone and typical winter lows can guide the safest approach.

After summer, caladiums naturally wind down. To save bulbs for next season, you can:

1. Let foliage yellow, then gently dig bulbs before a hard frost.
2. Brush off soil and trim leaves, leaving short stems.
3. Cure in a warm, dry, airy spot for about a week.
4. Store in a breathable bag or box with dry peat/vermiculite at roughly 60–70°F.
5. Check monthly and remove any that soften or mold.

When spring warmth returns, replant outdoors after frost or start indoors to jumpstart growth. Storage needs vary with home conditions, so adjust airflow and dryness as needed to keep bulbs firm.

Most caladiums prefer shade to part shade, which helps their colorful leaves stay vibrant.

• Light: Bright, indirect light or morning sun with afternoon shade is commonly recommended. Intense midday/afternoon sun can scorch leaves.
• Varieties: Some types tolerate a bit more sun, while others are happiest in deeper shade. If you’re unsure, start with more shade and adjust.
• Moisture: Keep soil evenly moist and well-drained; sunnier spots may need a little more watering.

Containers make light adjustments easy—move pots to find the sweet spot. Observing leaf color and edges over a week or two can help you fine-tune placement.