The croton plant often makes a great indoor plant or beautiful addition to any landscape. The plant species is from the Codieaum family. Its brightly colored tropical foliage is well known, and loved by landscapers and gardeners especially in the South.
The multicolored leaves are stiff. A distinctive trait of this plant is that its leaves point upwards, and feels like wax when handled. To have success growing the croton it is important to properly take care of it or its beautiful, bright colors will begin to fade.
The plant needs a plenty of sunlight. So it is best to keep it in a location where it gets bright light daily. The plant will also need the proper temperature settings. This includes enough humidity, because dry temperatures will make the leaves shrivel.
The croton needs to be watered only when the soil is dry. The amount for a plant grown indoors should be enough so the excess runs out the bottom of the pot. When planted in the ground outdoors, water it so the soil below ground level is moist. Water again once the topsoil has dried out.
A good sign your plants are in need of watering is when the leaves begin drooping. You may also notice that some begin fall off. If the croton is in direct sunlight and you are still having leave loss, it is possible the plant is not getting enough water.
On the other hand, it is possible to over water the lovely croton. On hint of excess watering is the wilting of its leaves. The Croton plant needs moist, well-drained soil for optimal growth. Feed the plant water and fertilizer during the active growing season.
Crotons do best in USDA Zones 10-11. The ideal temperature should stay within 60-85 degrees F. So it is a good idea to keep the plant where it remains warm. In addition, the heat and sun gives the plant more colorful foliage and keeps it healthy. Anything below 45 degrees F for an extended time will damage or kill the plant.
If it sounds like the croton plant is difficult to manage, that is not the case. The croton needs little pruning. However, if you see that some leaves are sickly, remove them to allow healthy ones to take their place.
The croton will work well as an attractive hedge or beautiful potted plant on a patio outside. The plants value comes from its multicolored leaves and foliage. Remember, the more light that is given to the plant, the brighter its colors become.
The plants sap can cause an allergic reaction in some adults, children and pets.
Author Resource:-
Steve Habib is a recognized authority on the subject of growing and caring for a variety of plants. His site CROTON PLANTS: offers a wealth of information about how to keep your croton and other plants healthy and growing all year round.
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