Croton ( Codiaeum ) Joseph`s Coat, isn`t the easiest plant to keep, but with the right care and the right conditions will reward you with one of the most colourful displays in the plant world. There are many varieties with different leaf shapes and colours. Narrow leafed, broad leafed, and curly. Some striped, speckled, veined or spotted, therefore it`s common name of Joseph`s Coat of many colours. Follow these tips and your Croton should be happy.
Good bright light is a must, but no direct sun. Low light won`t be tolerated for long as the leaves will lose colour. The other important consideration is watering. During growth, generally when conditions are warm, Spring and Summer, you just need to keep the compost evenly moist. Not soggy or saturated. Too much water will also cause leaf drop.
Crotons also prefer slightly higher levels of humidity than normal living room air. A steamy bathroom or kitchen is fine, if not try to increase the humidity around the plant by placing it on a saucer filled with decorative stones. Fill the saucer with water below the level of the stones and sit your croton on top of the stones, making sure the plant doesn`t touch the water. This will help increase the humidity around the plant.
Temperatures in general aren`t a problem. If you`re comfortable, your croton will be comfortable. A year round average of 20c will promote growth. Occasional drops in temperature to 15c is tolerated, making sure there`s no cold draughts.
Crotons can grow quickly and can be rather greedy feeders. Fertilise once a month with a foliage houseplant liquid feed at normal strength.
In Winter reduce watering slightly, allowing the top of the soil to dry between watering, and make sure to give it as much light as possible. Just be careful not to place it too near a window that becomes very cold, or draughty.
Re-pot only if absolutely necessary as sudden leaf drop can occur several weeks after. If so follow the general rule and do it in Spring. Make sure to use good free draining compost.
Minimum Temp: 15c
While their toxicity levels are not as high as some other species of plants, it is advisable to be cautious when keeping them as houseplants. The milky sap can cause irritation to the skin, and no part of the plant should be ingested. Keep away from pets and children.
