Elephant ears are the heavyweights of the summer garden, prized for their massive, heart-shaped leaves that can reach several feet in length. Whether you want to create a private tropical oasis or simply add a bold focal point to your landscape, these fast-growing plants are remarkably easy to establish if you follow a few basic principles.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to plant and care for elephant ears to ensure maximum growth this season.
Understanding Elephant Ear Varieties
"Elephant ear" is a common name for several different genera, primarily Alocasia, Colocasia, and Xanthosoma.
Colocasia (Taro): These typically have leaves that point downward and thrive in consistent moisture—some even grow in standing water.
Alocasia (Upright Elephant Ear): Their leaves point upward and they prefer well-drained soil, making them better suited for containers.
When to Plant Elephant Ears
Because they are tropical plants, elephant ears are highly sensitive to cold.
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Patience Pays Off: Planting too early in cold, wet soil can cause the tubers to rot before they ever sprout.
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Wait for the Warmth: Do not plant bulbs (tubers) outdoors until the soil temperature reaches at least 18°C (65°F) and all danger of frost has passed
Step-by-Step Planting Instructions
Follow these four steps to get your plants off to a strong start.
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Select a Site: Choose a location with partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, afternoon shade prevents the leaves from scorching.
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Prepare the Soil: Elephant ears are "heavy feeders." Enrich the planting area with plenty of compost or organic matter to provide the nutrients they need for rapid growth.
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Dig and Place: Dig a hole about two to three times deeper than the size of the tuber. Place the tuber in the hole with the "growing point" (the blunt end with concentric rings) facing up.
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Depth and Spacing: Cover the tuber with 2 to 4 inches of soil. If planting multiple bulbs, space them at least 3 feet apart to allow room for their massive leaf span.
Essential Care Tips
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist. A 70% increase in growth is often seen in plants that receive regular, deep watering during the heat of summer
Fertilizing: Apply a high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks throughout the growing season to support the development of large leaves.
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Lighting: When natural sunlight is insufficient, grow lights are essential for maintaining the health and vibrancy of indoor tropicals. Proper lighting prevents "leggy" growth and ensures your plants continue to produce the large, lush foliage they are known for. For a large plant such as the Elephant Ear, consider Soltech's Highland Track Light System!
Final Thoughts on Your Indoor Oasis
Success with elephant ears comes down to consistent processes and a clear understanding of their needs. By selecting the right variety, timing your planting for peak warmth, and leveraging advanced techniques like supplemental grow lights, you can achieve a 30-40% increase in visibility for your indoor garden's health and leaf size.
