Since I was raving about crotons on last weekend’s GardenLine, now is a great time to profile this perfect plant for fall gardening. The striking colors of the croton’s foliage are almost always associated with the coming of autumn weather. (Don’t laugh, it’s on the way!)
My wife loves these plants, and they’re always peppered among the mums, pumpkins and hay bales that decorate our porches for the season. The variegated leaves feature all the colors associated with a fall palette – red, yellow and orange mixed in the dark green base, and speckled with some maroons and purples.
Since nurseries and garden centers - even some big box stores and grocers – start stocking crotons around September, many people consider them cold-weather plants. They’re actually not!
In fact, crotons are tropical plants that love our humid climate. That’s why they also make great houseplants, especially when given tons of indirect light - they don’t do well in darker parts of the house. And for those who prefer minimal gardening or containers, crotons will look spectacular in all kinds of pot arrangements, offering a great blend of textures and colors.
To keep them healthy for a long time, you must be very consistent in their care. Crotons have a reputation for being fussy, but I say not if you’re careful with their soil, moisture and light.
They love filtered sunlight when outdoors – so don’t let them get hammered by the late-afternoon sun. On the other hand, don’t put them in an overly shady spot.
Crotons also need proper water and humidity. They will certainly get the humidity they need outdoors in Southeast Texas. But indoors, you may need to mist them once a week. I know some enthusiasts who sponge the leaves down with water - that keeps them shiny, too.
When it comes to watering, you must be very consistent - only do it when the top of the soil is dry to the touch. I believe many people overwater them.
Also, keep these plants away from cold drafts, as they don’t like temperatures below 50 degrees. When a freeze is possible, bring potted crotons inside or cover them up if they’re in your garden.
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PHOTOS: (From top) Covington's Nursery, Calloway's Nursery, Costa Farms