Acing the amount of light a Croton receives is crucial for a long-lasting specimen. During the spring and summer, be sure to provide a brightly lit spot away from any direct light. Excessive exposure during this time will negatively affect the plant in the likes of sun-scorch and dehydration. Once the autumn kicks in, be sure to include an hour or two of direct light per day to get it through the dormancy period.
A loss of variegations is a typical sign of too low light.
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Bright, indirect light is key to quality growth; avoid excessively dark locations as it'll significantly increase the risk of soil-mould & root rot.
- Allow the top third of the soil to dry out in between waters, reducing this slightly in the autumn and winter months.
- Provide a humid, reliable location by introducing a pebble tray. A constant level of humidity & temperature (12°C, 54°F +) is mandatory to prevent sudden leaf-loss.
- Fertilise using a 'Houseplant' labelled feed every four waters in the spring and summer, reducing this to every six in the colder months.
- Repot every two years with a 'Houseplant' labelled potting mix; be sure to respect the roots as transplant shock is a big issue that could cause wilting, sudden leaf loss or even death.