Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Colossal Caladiums!

These are a wonderful backdrop of foliage. A big plus here, the deer won't touch them as they are quite bitter and a throat irritant.
It was an amazing growth season for the "Elephant Ear" plants [Caladium]. Many grew to over six feet tall and we even had some blossoms which is most unusual in this climate. Fall is when they are most prolific. Late Fall is also the time to cut down the plants and dig up the tuberous bulbs for winter storage in the cool cellar. It's tough to do because they are so beautiful, yet easier than waiting until the first freeze. The tactile sensation is like a rotten banana after freezing. We prefer to do the job while they are still firm. A word of caution to fellow gardeners, the clear watery liquid exuded from the cuttings will stain clothing.