Do I Dig up Caladium Tubers or Leave Alone?

Tropical Areas

• In the warmest areas of the country, such as South Florida and Southern California, caladium tubers continue to grow throughout the winter and should be watered and fed as normal. There is no need to dig the tubers or give them a rest period unless they go dormant by themselves, in which case you can leave the tubers in the garden.

Sub-Tropical Areas

• In parts of the country where caladiums naturally go dormant but the soil temperature doesn't drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, such as central Florida, the tubers will overwinter outside without damage and do not need to be dug up or stored inside.

All Other Regions

• In all other areas of the country, caladium tubers must be dug up and stored inside if they're to last the winter. The University of Florida recommends digging the tubers when the foliage begins to yellow and droop.

Caladium Winter Storage

• After digging the tubers, allow them to dry for at least a week in a protected area where the temperature won't drop under 60 degrees. Since all tubers look alike once they're dry, sort the tubers by color or cultivar before the foliage fades completely. After the foliage has dried, cut the dried leaves off the tubers. Dust the tubers with a fungicide and then store the tubers in dry peat, sawdust or vermiculite in a well-ventilated, 60- to 70-degree area. Some gardeners store the tubers in onion bags or old stockings. Inspect the caladiums occasionally and remove any that have softened or appear moldy.

Caladiums In Containers

• Caladiums planted in containers don't need to be dug. Once the plants start to fade and droop, withhold watering to induce complete dormancy. Move the container to a basement or other area where winter temperatures stay above 60 degrees. Clean away all plant debris from the top of the container to discourage overwintering diseases or insects. In spring, top dress the container with organic material such as compost and resume watering. Plants can be moved back outside once temperatures remain above 60 degrees at night.