How Does an Alocasia Plant Grow?

Before Spring

• Alocasia plants start out as dormant tubers. Where plants are winter hardy you can plant them any time of year. Elsewhere, plant them in spring after all danger of frost is past and temperatures are warm. They do best in rich, moisture-retaining soil in either full sun or partial shade. Alocasias grown in sun will be somewhat more compact and feature brighter colors. Some can become invasive, so make sure you allow enough room for the varieties you plant. You can also grow them in pots to contain them. Containers should be large -- at least 18 inches wide and deep -- with good drainage holes. If winds are likely, add gravel to the bottom of the pot, to anchor it, then fill it with rich potting soil.

In Spring & Summer

• Water the soil around tubers thoroughly, and keep soil moist. Top growth will begin to appear in three to eight weeks, and plants will grow fast. Elephant's ear plants require little attention. Maintain adequate soil moisture. All types need moist soil; some thrive in soggy or boggy soil. Alocasias are heavy feeders, because of their vigorous and rapid growth. Apply half-strength water-soluble 20-20-20 fertilizer every three weeks during vigorous spring and summer growth.

Dieback and Dormancy

• Even in climates with mild winter temperatures, plants slow down in fall and rest in winter. Unless there has been a freeze, which causes dieback, leave foliage in place. Green leaves continue to photosynthesize, or make food energy to store in the tuber for next year's growth. If leaves begin to yellow -- some types will -- allow them to die back completely before removing them, so the tuber can re-absorb all available. Water tubers occasionally, even when dormant.

Wintering Alocasia

• In cold winter areas, elephant's ears can still be enjoyed as warm-weather foliage plants. In winter, potted plants can be brought indoors or grown in a greenhouse. Alternatively, dig tubers then replant them the following spring. After frost kills top growth, cut back the foliage and carefully dig the tubers. Wash off any remaining soil, let tubers fully air-dry and then wrap them in newspapers or pack them in peat moss. Store tubers -- carefully labeled -- in a dark, cool place for the winter, such as a basement that's 35 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Don't let them freeze. Pot them up and water tubers six to eight weeks before your last expected freeze, to get an early start on the growing season.