Elephant ear plants are a stunning addition to any garden. They can transform a space into an exotic paradise with lush, tropical foliage reminiscent of elephant ears. This guide explores growing and caring for elephant ear plants indoors and outdoors.
What Are Elephant Ear Plants?
Elephant ears are tropical plants known for their large leaves throughout the growing season. Common types of elephant ears include colocasia, alocasia, and xanthosoma. These plants are often grown outdoors in the garden but can also be planted indoors as a houseplant.
Elephant Ears Care: Essential Tips
Light Requirements
You can plant elephant ears in full sun to partial shade. They prefer growing in a part-shade or dappled sun location. The more sun you give elephant ears, the more you will have to water the plant.
Soil and Watering
Elephant ears grow best in rich, moist soil. They thrive in boggy areas, marshes, swampland, or water gardens. Keep the soil wet but not soggy. In some climates, you may need to water the plants daily or several times per day.
Temperature and Climate
Elephant ears are tropical plants that thrive in warm climates. They will be evergreen in USDA zone 10 or slightly warmer but may die back to the ground in zones 8 to 9, returning in the spring.
Fertilizing Elephant Ears
Like many tropical plants, elephant ears are heavy feeders. Apply a water-soluble, high-nitrogen fertilizer every two to three weeks to keep the plant healthy.
How to Plant Elephant Ears
Planting in the Garden
Plant elephant ears about 4 inches deep in the garden. Space the plants at least 2 feet apart for smaller elephant ears and 4 feet apart for larger varieties. These fast-growing plants will achieve their full size within two months.
Planting in Containers
Elephant ears can be grown as container plants. Use a potting mix with organic matter that helps hold moisture. Container-grown plants may need watering twice daily in warm weather.
Propagating Elephant Ears
From Tubers
Elephant ears likely grow from a tuber. You can propagate elephant ears by dividing the tuber at the end of the growing season. Store the tuber in a dry, cool spot until the following spring.
From Seeds
Less commonly, elephant ears are grown from seed. Sprinkle the seeds on top of a seed-starting mix and keep the mix damp.
Common Problems and Solutions
Pests and Plant Diseases
The most common elephant ear plant diseases include fungal leaf blight and Pythium rot. Spider mites may also infest the plant. Regularly inspect the plants and take appropriate action if needed.
Yellowing or Drooping Leaves
If the leaves turn yellow or sag, they need more or less sunlight, water, or fertilizer. Cut back the yellow leaves and adjust care as needed.
Growing Elephant Ears Indoors
Elephant ears can be grown indoors as houseplants. Place the plant near a bright window but not directly on the windowsill. Keep the soil consistently moist and mist the plant to provide humidity.
Overwintering Elephant Ears
Dig up the tubers before the first frost in colder climates and store them in a cool basement or garage. You can replant them outdoors in the spring.
Conclusion
Growing elephant ear plants is an exciting venture. Whether planted outdoors in the garden or indoors as a houseplant, these tropical beauties add a touch of the exotic to any space. With proper care, elephant ears will grow and thrive, providing lush foliage throughout the growing season. Follow our guide, and you’ll have beautiful elephant ears in your garden or home in no time.
