Harvesting Caladium Plant:
Timing and Techniques

Caladiums are beautiful plants that add color and texture to any garden. Known for their heart-shaped leaves and vibrant colors, caladiums are a popular choice for gardeners. But when it comes to harvesting caladium plants, timing and techniques are important factors to consider.

Timing

The timing of harvesting caladium plants depends on the purpose of the harvest. If you are harvesting the caladium bulbs for replanting, you should wait until the foliage has died back naturally. This usually happens in late fall or early winter, depending on your location. Once the foliage has died back, carefully dig up the bulbs, brush off any excess soil, and store them in a cool, dry place until spring.

If you are harvesting caladium leaves for cut flowers or decorative arrangements, you can start harvesting as soon as the leaves have reached their full size and color. This is usually in mid-summer. To harvest the leaves, simply cut them at the base of the stem using a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears.

Techniques

Harvesting caladium plants requires some care and attention to detail. Here are some techniques to follow:

For Bulbs:

• Wait until the foliage has died back naturally.
• Carefully dig up the bulbs using a garden fork or trowel.
• Brush off any excess soil from the bulbs.
• Allow the bulbs to dry in a well-ventilated area for a few days.
• Store the bulbs in a cool, dry place until spring.

For Leaves:

• Wait until the leaves have reached their full size and color.
• Cut the leaves at the base of the stem using sharp scissors or pruning shears.
• Immediately place the cut stems in water to prevent wilting.
• Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.

FAQ

Q: Can I harvest caladium bulbs before the foliage dies back?

A: No, it is important to wait until the foliage has died back naturally before harvesting caladium bulbs. This allows the plant to store energy in the bulb for next year’s growth.

Q: How do I know when it is time to harvest caladium leaves for cut flowers?

A: You can start harvesting caladium leaves for cut flowers as soon as they have reached their full size and color. This is usually in mid-summer.

Q: Can I plant harvested caladium bulbs immediately?

A: No, harvested caladium bulbs should be stored in a cool, dry place until spring. Plant them when all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed up.

Q: How do I store harvested caladium bulbs?

A: After brushing off any excess soil, allow harvested caladium bulbs to dry in a well-ventilated area for a few days. Store them in a cool, dry place until spring.

Q: Can I propagate caladiums from harvested bulbs?

A: Yes, you can propagate caladiums from harvested bulbs by dividing them into smaller sections with at least one “eye” or growing point per section. Plant each section in a pot or directly in the ground in spring after all danger of frost has passed.

Harvesting caladium plants is an easy process that requires patience and attention to detail. By following these tips and techniques, you can successfully harvest your caladiums for replanting or decorative purposes.