When to Plant Elephant Ear Bulbs

WHEN TO PLANT: Elephant ears are planted in spring after any danger of frost has passed. The tubers will not grow until the soil is warm, so don't plant them until the soil temperature is 65ºF.

Should you soak elephant ear bulbs before planting?
How long does it take for elephant ear bulbs to grow?
When can you plant elephant ears outside?
Do elephant ear bulbs multiply?
Can I use Miracle Grow on elephant ears?
How much sun do elephant ears need?
What month do elephant ears bloom?
Are coffee grounds good for elephant ears?
Which elephant ears tolerate full sun?
Can you leave elephant ears in the ground over winter?
Where is the best place to plant elephant ears?
How often do you water elephant ears?

Should you soak elephant ear bulbs before planting?

This smooth end will produce the sprout and should be facing up. Plant the bulb so that it is covered with 1-2" of soil. Thoroughly soak the area with water once the tubers have been planted. Continue to water regularly throughout the growing season.

How long does it take for elephant ear bulbs to grow?

Elephant ears usually sprout three to eight weeks from planting. Sprouting occurs when the weather begins to warm in spring. They will sprout faster in warmer climates than in cooler climates. To speed up the process, you can start them inside and move them outdoors once it warms up.

When can you plant elephant ears outside?

How to Plant Elephant Ear Tubers: Plant elephant ear bulbs outside after all danger of frost has passed and daytime temperatures remain above 70 degrees. Elephant Ears are tropical plants and cannot tolerate any frost. They only emerge when the soil is warm.

Do elephant ear bulbs multiply?

When to Divide Elephant Ears

Elephant ears can become huge plants with gigantic leaves. Many spread through underground runners, or stolons, and send up baby plants along the way. ... Since it is not actively growing, the plant will be less stressed than if you divide it while it is in full growth mode.

Can I use Miracle Grow on elephant ears?

Fertilize your mammoth elephant ear plant once a month during its growing season to promote vigorous growth. Apply a water-soluble, quick-release fertilizer like Bloom Plus, Miracle-Gro or Grow More according to package directions.

How much sun do elephant ears need?

Growing elephant ear plants is easy. Most of these plants prefer rich, moist soil and can be grown in full sun, but they generally prefer partial shade. The tubers can be placed directly outdoors once the threat of frost or freezing temperatures have ceased in your area.

What month do elephant ears bloom?

Elephant ears may bloom from spring through to summer with inconspicuous green flowers on long stalks. The flower has a modified leaf or spathe that covers the stalk, while the stalk consists of a cluster of tiny flowers. Flowering depends upon growing conditions and elephant ear plants may not bloom every year.

Are coffee grounds good for elephant ears?

Coffee grounds can help to add much-needed nitrogen to the soil around your elephant ear plant. There is no other real positive effects that coffee offers a plant. Too much coffee grounds in the soil can have the opposite effect though and will actually rob the soil of nitrogen and also rob it of its nutrients.

Which elephant ears tolerate full sun?

There are two types of elephant ears: alocasias and colocasias. Colocasias display their leaves with tip of the heart pointing down. They prefer full sun and consistent moisture.

Can you leave elephant ears in the ground over winter?

Elephant ears will not survive freezing temperatures and are winter hardy only in zones 9-11. In colder areas, you can either treat elephant ears as annuals and discard them at the end of the growing season, or you can store the tubers indoors and replant them next year. ... Allow the tuber to continue to dry.

Where is the best place to plant elephant ears?

Elephant Ears perform best in sun or part shade. While most can be grown in partial shade, the darker colored varieties are best grown in full sun. Provide a sheltered location to protect the decorative leaves from strong winds.

How often do you water elephant ears?

Plan on giving plants at least 2-3 inches of water per week. Fertilizing: Elephant ears are heavy eaters, as well as drinkers. Fertilize monthly with a general fertilizer of choice.