I recently picked up my first Croton plant because of it's beautiful variegated leaves and general vigor. It really caught my eye. I'm sure this was brand new stock - all of their plants were healthy and the colors were vibrant. But I'm unfamiliar with how to continue caring for it. It looks like two plants in one pot. The roots must be well developed because they are beginning to grow out of the bottom of the pot. It's planted in, what looks to me like, straight peat moss. As I've read on earlier threads regarding Croton, I will leave it in it's nursery pot and keep the medium moist etc. But I was curious about the type of potting medium that it's currently planted in. What type of soil does this plant thrive in? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Susan - It looks like you have a nice Croton. Trust that the nursery growers know what they are doing and have used an appropriate potting mix that you cannot improve on because that is what the roots are adapted to. Replacing the soil or repotting your Croton would be a big mistake. In general, most growers use a peat-based, soilless potting mix with some porous material added throughout.

The two things you should be concerned with are light and water. Keep your Croton close to a moderately sunny window. Lots of good sunlight is essential to preserving its vibrant colors.

Crotons do not tolerate dryness. Even a single episode of getting too dry will cause major leaf loss. Water it thoroughly - until some water trickles through the drain holes - as soon as the surface of the soil feels almost but not quite dry.

Crotons can tolerate cool temps and cooler temps are a deterrent to spider mites. Spider mites are a common problem with Crotons, especially if they are under stress from getting too little light or water. Check the leaves regularly for signs of spider mites.

Perfect instructions @WillC! Thank you so much.