Many crotons grow best in full sun, but many cultivars can tolerate, and even prefer, light shade partial shade. Crotons are best grown in
subtropical South and Central Florida
. Frosts or freezes will damage them, but they quickly recover. When used outdoors this plant looks most attractive when grown in groups.
How much sun can a croton take?
Croton plants prefer
full sun
, but depending on the species, some can tolerate partial shade. The amount of sun that the plant receives will correlate to the intensity of its color. In order to attain full, vibrant color, the plant should remain in good light.
Are Crotons full sun?
For the best color development crotons should receive good light but have some protection from full midday sun.
Their color burns out in full sun
and hardly develops at all in shade, Bender says. Even crotons bred for indoor use need as much light as they can get to hold their color well.
Can a croton get too much sun?
If the croton is getting too much sunlight,
colors may begin to fade
. In this case, make sure your plant gets a bit more shade to regain vibrant leaf coloring. Native to tropical areas, croton plants are not winter hardy and may suffer damage if temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can croton handle direct sun?
Croton plants can be temperamental. They don’t like to be moved, and
they love direct sunlight
, and when they are cared for properly, they look absolutely stunning. … The fertilizer should be high in nitrogen and potassium, but feeding the plant too much can cause the leaves to dull and damage the roots.
Do Crotons like lots of water?
Crotons need plenty of water
. Even though they need good drainage they should not be allowed to dry out, which can happen in winter. With a container plant, don’t let the soil dry completely before watering.
How often do Crotons need to be watered?
Watering a Croton plant depends on the situation. It
can be daily or weekly
because you should never let the soil stay dry for an extended period. However, check if the soil is dry before watering to avoid overwatering and root rot. Keep your Croton plant evenly moist in the summer.
Why croton leaves fall off?
If you accidentally let your Croton’s soil dry out completely, you may see some leaves drop. It will benefit from a good soak in the sink or tub to properly rehydrate the soil. Keep in mind that
when the soil goes from bone-dry to saturated
, it can cause stress for your Croton and cause leaves to drop.
What is the lifespan of a croton plant?
Regardless of the type, the average life span of this plant
exceeds two years
. But if you fulfill basic croton care requirements, it will continue to gladden your eye.
When should I bring my Croton inside?
When temperatures begin to drop at the end of summer
, move your plant to a sunny window indoors. Be aware that Croton leaves may drop when moved. When springtime temperatures rise above 55° degrees Fahrenheit, begin exposing your plant to outdoor light and temperatures.
Do Crotons clean the air?
If you’re looking for color, it’s tough to beat croton. A popular houseplant, croton features wildly variegated leaves that often have more red, orange, yellow, or purple than green. A great choice for high-light spots, croton
sucks nasty VOCs from the air like
a champ. Check out more houseplants with colorful leaves!
How can I make my Croton grow faster?
Crotons have a slow to moderate growth, at up to 12 inches in a growing season.
Consistently warm temperatures, regular watering and bright, filtered light
encourage faster growth.
Are Crotons hard to care for?
About. Crotons have some of the boldest and brightest foliage around. Often vividly marked with bright yellow, orange, and red, these exotic plants have a reputation for being high-maintenance due to their tropical nature, but once they acclimate to their new home,
they’re quite low-care
.
Do Crotons like to be outside?
Crotons are relatively easy-going plants in the landscape, but they don’t tolerate wet feet well and should be planted in well-drained soil. They will thrive in either
full sun or part-shade locations
, though in shadier spots their colors may be more muted.
Can I plant a Petra croton outside?
Croton like to be kept moist, but not wet. In areas with warm, humid summers, croton can
be grown outdoors
as a unique and colorful landscape plant. They work well in tropical-themed containers or alongside annuals in the ground.
