Croton Mania`s Data Page
Indoor Plants
There are many indoor plants that blend into the background(sometimes even going unnoticed) while they subtle add to the decor of a room. Crotons are not one of them.In fact, it would be a challenge not to notice them in any room or any groupings of plants.They are truly striking plants,making a definite contribution to any space with their boldly colored leaves. Crotons offer the indoor gardener bold color,striking texture and mass.But color is the croton`s most prized and notable feature.Depending on the specific variety you select,croton leaves are multi-colored,usually with bright yellow,shades of red and some incredible shades of green all on one plant.The leaves of most varieties of crotons are large,often 6 inches wide and almost a foot long.A few varieties offer narrower,wavy leaves and some offer unusual leaves shaped like oak leaves.And then there are those with leaves that offer all the color,sizes and shapes that are also incredibly wrinkly or curled. Crotons definitely have a lot to offer!
Crotons sometimes called by the old-fashioned common name Joseph`s Coat,crotons are actually evergreen shrubs native to tropical areas of Malaysia,southern Asia and the pacific Islands.Most of the crotons grown are botanically Codiaeum variegatum.
Tips for Growing Healthy Crotons
What are the light requirements for crotons?
To stay healthy and colorful,crotons require lots of strong light.If exposed to it gradually,crotons will even thrive in full sun. Supplemental articifical light will help indoors.
How much water do they need?
Crotons need to be kept slightly damp and cannot be allowed to dry out.Outdoors in the summer,you may need to water them several times every week.Indoors they use less water.Water should be at room temperature.
Do they have any special temperature requirements?
Crotons like it warm,but not hot.Like many other tropical plants,they can handle hotter temperatures when the air is very humid.Hot and dry is especailly hard on crotons.Also,avoid exposing them to temperatures below 60.
Do crotons need much humidity?
High humidity is essential for a healthy croton.The plants should be misted regularly and kept on a humidy tray indoors.
How much fertilizer do they require?
To maintain good growth,feed crotons regularly throughout the spring and summer with a water-soluble fertilizer such as Miracle Grow or meracid.Let the plant rest during fall and winter.
What type of soil do they prefer?
Use a quality,peat-based potting soil
When should I repot my croton?
Keeping in mind that crotons like to be somewhat crowded into their containers,repot them in late winter or early spring when needed.
What causes a croton to drop leaves?
If it is lower leaves that are falling off,the air is probably too dry for the croton.When leaves drop off here and there throughout the plant,that usually indicates that the temperatures are changing too much for it,probably
dropping too low.
When leaves become dry and crunchy,what is the problem?
When the air is too hot,too dry or both,leaves will turn dull,then brown and get brittle.
Why is the new foliage such a different color than the older leaves?
The newest foliage is almost always a bright green and the more bold colors develop as the leaves mature and recieve good strong light.If the foliage fails to develop its characteristic colors,try increasing the light.Too much nitrogen fertilizer may also dull the colors.
If the leaves develop brown edges or brown spots,what is wrong?
This is often the result of the leaves getting wet while they are in full,hot sun.Spray early in the day to avoid this problem.
What causes the leaves to wilt even when it is adequately watered?
Too much water can make the leaves wilt and droop.It can also cause the stems to rot down toward the base of the plant.Allow it to dry out slightly between waterings,especially during the winter.
Are crotons prone to any insect problems?
When crotons are stressed,they can have problems with scale,mealy bugs and occasionally with spider mites.Keep them as healthy as possible and consult one of Croton Manias experts for further help.