How To Grow Croton Plants Inside Your Home Or Outdoors

Croton Plants

It is known for its brightly colored tropical foliage. Often, it is mistaken for an exotic and tropical plant because of the multi colored appearance it has. These plants are often good indoor plants, if you know how to take care of them. This plant species is from the Codieaum family.

The leaves of many croton plants are stiff. A unique characteristic of it is that each of the leaves tends to point up, and they feel as if they are covered in wax. It is critical that you take care of the croton plant correctly or these beautiful characteristics will fade.

Caring for the Plant

Adequate lighting is essential. Place the plant in an area where it can get bright light most days. It will also require the right temperature setting. This includes humidity, as a very dry climate will cause the leaves to wither. Also, unlike other plants, the croton needs to be heavily watered. Place the plant in well draining soil that is loosely compacted. Be sure that the water has a way to exit, such as holes in the bottom of the plant’s potting.

This allows for excess water to drain away, keeping the soil moist but not over saturated.You may also need to mist the croton regularly. Mist with cool water in a spray bottle. Do so one or two times per week, especially when the weather is dryer. If you live in an area where there is low humidity, it will be necessary to mist the plant more often.

Watering is key to the plants overall health

A sure sign that it is not getting enough water is the drooping leaves. You may also notice leaves fall off. If the plant is in direct sunlight and is still experiencing leave loss, the plant is likely not getting nearly enough water.

On the other hand, it is possible to over water the croton. One indication of over watering this plant is that the leaves may begin to wilt. The soil should not be foul smelling, or soggy, but it should remain moist.

Whenever possible to do so, keep the temperature in the room warm. Croton plants prefer temperatures around 80 degrees F. When this is not possible, keep the plant located by a good source of heat. This will give the plant the best coloring and foliage and keep it healthy.

It may sound like the croton is a hard to manage plant, but the good news is it is not too difficult once you learn the proper watering requirements. You may need to monitor watering amounts more closely for this plant than you would others, though.

There is little pruning needed for the plant, but if you do find leaves that are unhealthy, you can cut them off to allow for healthier growth.

Finally, be careful where you place your croton plants. This plant may be classified as a poisonous houseplant. Keep it out of the way of children as well as pets who may nibble on it.

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