About Polly Plants

Growing Conditions

• Polly plants can grow in both sunlight and shade. When purchasing a polly plant, ask the grower which conditions are best for the specific species. Also, these plants need to be watered often. They do well in a climate that is humid. If you live in an area with temperatures that drop below 60 degrees, this type of plant won’t do well. Tropical climates are ideal.

Shade and Sunlight

• Most polly plants do fine in the shade and can flourish with filtered sunlight. There are some species that do well with direct sunlight--usually a larger polly plant. There are 70 different species of alocasia plants. Find one that does best in your climate and weather conditions. When leaves start to fall off your plant, trim them back. Keep the plant moist and warm to promote better health.

Watering Tips

• You might notice spots on the leaves of your polly plant, which is a fairly common problem; if you live in a city, the water may be to blame. Consider buying distilled water; doing so should stop your polly plant from spotting.

Soil and Fertilizer

• Pick your fertilizer carefully; the wrong one may also be to blame for spotting on your polly plant. Give your polly plant fertilizer only two to three times annually if you are using a traditional fertilizer with chemicals. Alternatively, use a fish emulsion, available at most nurseries. With this fertilizer, use it every other month. Soil for your polly plant should be loose. Select a potting mix that’s well-draining.