Croton Plant Care

Crotons are easy to grow houseplants known for their vibrant variegated leaves covered in green, maroon, orange, and yellow splotches.

Here are some simple directions to help maintain gorgeous crotons indoor.

Photo by Madelyn Cox

1 - When Crotons are planted indoors they should be placed by your brightest window and planted in quality potting mix that drains efficiently .The more light it gets the brighter its leaves will be.

2 - Protect them from drafts around windows and doors, as well as air-conditioning vents.

3 - Keep crotons evenly moist in the summer. They need about 1 inch of water per week.

Reduce watering in the winter to biweekly.

Photo by : Aurelia Ferreira

4 -Keep the room above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and do not expose the plant to cold drafts.

5- Maintain a humid environment, Humidity. If the humidity isn't high enough, the plant might drop some of its leaves. If you have trouble maintaining the moisture in your home at this level, run a humidifier in the room or set a humidity tray beneath the plant and enclose it between other plants .

6 - Use liquid fertilizer every other month.

7 - Crotons respond very well to pruning, so if your croton plant becomes leggy, cut it back hard at the beginning of the growing season. Remove unhealthy leaves and branches or if you want to maintain a specific shape.

Yes Crotons can be a little finicky at times but I think their bright colors make up for that also :o)

Note: All parts of this plant are poisonous—especially the seeds—so it is not recommended for use in homes with curious pets or children. When damaged, croton produce a milky sap that can be irritating to the skin, too.