✰ How to tell if your Caladium is going dormant? ✰

Caladium dormancy can be a worrying time for any plant parent, especially when your beautiful foliage starts to disappear. I remember the first time my Caladium started to look sad, eventually it was 'down to one leaf' and I panicked, thinking I'd killed it! But often, it's just part of their natural cycle. Understanding this cycle is key to keeping your Caladium healthy for years. Why Do Caladiums Go Dormant? Caladiums are tropical plants, native to areas with distinct wet and dry seasons. They grow from tubers (like small potatoes) and naturally go dormant when conditions become unfavorable, typically in fall and winter as temperatures drop and light levels decrease. This rest period allows the tuber to conserve energy and come back stronger when spring arrives. Think of it as a long winter's nap for your plant! Preparing Your Caladium for Dormancy When you notice your Caladium's leaves starting to fade slowly, yellow, or growth slowing down, it's a sign it's getting ready for its rest. This usually happens as the days shorten and temperatures cool. During this period, I gradually reduce watering. I let the soil dry out more between waterings, and eventually, I stop watering altogether once the leaves have completely died back. Don't be tempted to cut off green leaves; let them yellow and die back naturally, as the plant reabsorbs nutrients from them into the tuber. Caring for Caladium Tubers During Dormancy Once all the leaves have withered and fallen off, you have a choice: you can either leave the tubers in their pots (if you live in a mild climate and the pot won't freeze) or dig them up. I usually dig mine up because I live in a cooler area and like to inspect them. Gently brush off the soil and allow the tubers to air dry for a few days in a cool, dark, well-ventilated spot. Once dry, I store them in a mesh bag, a paper bag, or even peat moss in a cool, dark, and dry place (around 50-60°F or 10-15°C) like a basement or closet. It’s important to check on them periodically for any signs of rot or mold. A healthy dormant tuber should feel firm, not mushy or shriveled. If you find a mushy spot, it's best to cut it away with a clean knife and dust with sulfur powder if you have it. Waking Up Your Caladium from Dormancy Around late winter or early spring, as temperatures rise and daylight hours increase, your Caladium tubers will be ready to wake up! This is one of my favorite parts of the plant cycle. I typically repot my tubers in fresh potting mix, burying them about 2 inches deep with the 'eyes' (growth points) facing upwards. I then give them an initial light watering and place them in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Be patient; it can take a few weeks for new shoots to emerge, but once they do, you'll be rewarded with vibrant foliage all over again!