How to Care for an Elephant's Ear Begonia

Grow elephant ear begonias in an area with bright but indirect sunlight. Choose an outdoor location in dappled shade under trees, or indoors place them near a well-lit window.

Water the begonias when the top 1/2 inch of soil feels dry. Bedding plants may require watering two to three times a week, depending on weather and rainfall. Check potted plants every day and water as needed.

Spread 1 inch of compost on top of the soil each spring before mulching. The compost adds organic matter to the soil, which improves the moisture retention qualities of the site.

Cover the soil around the begonia with a 2-inch layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips, to help retain soil moisture. Mulch also improves soil quality by adding organic matter as it breaks down. Replenish the mulch layer each spring.

Apply a soluble plant fertilizer, such as a 24-8-16 blend, every two weeks in spring and summer when the elephant ear begonia is actively growing. Dilute 1 teaspoon in 1 gallon of water for potted plants, or use 1 tablespoon per gallon for bedding plants.

Check begonias regularly for aphids, mites and thrips, which usually feed on the underside of the leaves. Rinse the pests off with a sharp spray of water or spray the plant with a ready-to-use insecticidal soap spray every three days until the pests disappear.