Q: I’m trying to simplify things as much as possible and I love caladiums. This past winter I left the bulbs planted in a container in my basement but they rotted. Anything else I can try?

A: You’re right that rot probably caused the corms to deteriorate. Caladiums originated in South America and are very sensitive to soil temperature and moisture, both while growing and while in storage. The best way to keep them alive in a container is to remove the leaves just before the first frost and store the pots in an upstairs closet where it stays warm all winter. Bring the pots out in March, place in a sunny window, and give them water. It will take five weeks for new growth to emerge above the soil. By that time it should be warm enough to put them outdoors.