Soil temperature of 70 F is preferred. Water frequently and thoroughly, keeping the soil evenly moist to touch but not saturated. Do not let caladiums sit in water if planted in a container. Fertilize caladiums regularly with a soluble fertilizer to promote strong foliage growth. You can grow caladiums from tubers yourself or buy already-started plants.
Large tubers have more leaf buds than small tubers and, therefore, make larger and better displays.
Each caladium tuber has a large central bud surrounded by several small buds. Most caladium varieties produce only a few colorful leaves if the large central bud is allowed to grow. Remove the central bud to allow the tuber to produce many more shoots and leaves. Use the tip of a sharp knife to lift out the large central bud, being careful not to injure any of the surrounding small buds. Save caladium tubers for planting next year by digging the tubers in the fall before the leaves have lost all color.