On our recent grower visits several growers indicated that their caladium crops produced from tubers were either slow to emerge, emerging unevenly, or not emerging at all. There are several factors that contribute to these emergence issues and we will discuss those in this alert.
Caladiums originate in the tropical regions of Central and South America and therefore require warm temperatures. Most caladium tubers for commercial production are field-grown in Central Florida and are dried “cured” between digging and shipping for 6 to 8 weeks. Growers receive the cured tubers from January to June for forcing in the greenhouse.
Once you receive your tubers inspect them; they should feel firm, rubbery and somewhat sweaty. If they feel spongy or soft, they were more than likely exposed to cold temperatures and should not be planted. If the tubers must be stored until you are ready to plant them, place them at 70 °F (21 °C) on a screened rack with adequate circulation.
