Page 201 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2025

Allow the tubers to dry until the foliage is tan and papery in appearance. This generally takes about 10 to 14 days. At that time, the foliage will easily separate from the tubers, leaving a cleanly healed scar.
The tubers can then be rinsed with water, or simply brush off excess soil. Air-dry in a well-ventilated place for several days.
When they are dry, they are ready for storing over the winter. Place the healthy tubers in a mesh bag such as an onion or crawfish sack, a paper bag, or cardboard box. The idea is that the container should be able to “breathe.” Do not store the tubers in a plastic bag as this may lead to rotting. You should have some nice ones to plant by next spring.
The plants look beautiful as a border or in a container. Plant tubers 2” deep and 6” apart. All types of caladiums thrive here when they are planted in partly shaded locations.
In the South, if you are going to plant caladiums in a sunnier location, try the following varieties:
The following work well in a shadier environment:
Carolyn Whorton Fire Chief Rosebud
White Queen
Miss Muffet Mumbo
Pink Gem Red Frill
Moonlight
Pink Symphony White Delight Freida Hemple
Desert Sunset Stardust Rosalie Gingerland
I hope you find some wonderful varieties that work for you.
Happy Gardening!
Gaye Winter, Ph.D., teaches English at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and is currently serving as President of the Biloxi Garden
Club. Reach her at gaye.winter@mgccc.edu.
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
September 2025 | 201