Croton - a wealth of colors

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The wealth of colors of codium, or croton, is amazing. Among gardeners there are different opinions on his account. Some consider this plant unpretentious, while most, on the contrary, call it a whim, which is difficult to make friends with. Here are some recommendations without which it will not be possible to tame this plant.

If you purchased croton in a store, it must be transplanted from the transport soil into a light, breathable substrate. Usually planted in universal soil with the addition of disintegrants (perlite, vermiculite) and pieces of charcoal. A good drainage layer is required at the bottom. The roots of the plant should be cleaned as best as possible of the old soil, being careful not to damage them. The pot is selected so that it is slightly larger than the root system. Crotons do not like large pots, in addition, it is more difficult to regulate watering in them and there is a greater risk of filling the plant.

Place kodiyeyi prefer bright, with direct sunlight in the morning or evening. On the southern window in the summer during the daytime the plant needs to be pritenit. Good lighting contributes to a brighter color of the leaves. In a dark place, growth will be slowed down, and most importantly, the color will be less rich or the leaves will remain green at all.

In the cold season, it is necessary to ensure that the “legs” of the croton do not freeze, since the supercooling of an earthen coma, especially in combination with heavy watering, can lead to decay of the roots and death of the plant. Kodiyeyi love warmth, therefore drafts and temperature drops should not be allowed below + 16-18 degrees.

It is very important to adjust watering when growing croton. Between watering, the topsoil in the pot should dry. At first, it will not be amiss to check the pot by weight or with a special wooden spatula. It is best to water when the croton starts to lower the leaves slightly, showing with all its appearance that it is thirsty. Still, it is not worthwhile to allow complete drying: a plant can lose some of its leaves and lose its attractiveness.

Croton loves to bathe in the shower. This is also a hygienic procedure, since in dry air a spider mite can attack the plant. You can combine swimming with watering, but be sure to let excess water drain, avoiding stagnation of moisture in the pot.

Subject to these, in general, simple conditions, the croton will delight you not only with its magnificent foliage, but also with flowering. The codium flowers smell pleasantly and gently. They do not differ in brightness and decorativeness, but the very fact of flowering cannot but rejoice.