Elephant ears, also known as alocasias and colocasias, are easily recognized by their large, heart-shaped leaves and are loved for their range of color and dramatic foliage. These tropical plants are beautiful on their own, indoors or outdoors, or pair well with other summer plants outside.
If you're looking to add elephant ears to your greenery collection, follow these tips on how to plant elephant ear bulbs to ensure your plants are set up to thrive.
How to Plant Elephant Ear Bulbs
Add compost or mulch to the soil area to increase soil nutrients and organic matter.
Loosen the soil about 8 inches deep, removing any stones or grass. Level the surface with a rake.
Dig holes about 5 inches deep and 3 feet apart.
Place the bulb in the soil. The top of the bulb should be about 1 inch below the soil surface.
Cover the bulb with soil and water thoroughly.
Tip
Not sure which direction the bulb should go in the earth? Sometimes it's not so obvious. Elephant ear bulbs typically have a smooth side and a rougher, bumpier side with signs of root hairs. Plant the bulbs smooth side up (this side may also have a pointy tip).
When to Plant Elephant Ear Bulbs
Plant elephant ears when temperatures have warmed up in the spring and any danger of frost has passed. Elephant ear bulbs will not grow in cold soil, so wait until the soil temperature reaches 65ºF.
If you're hoping to get a jump start on planting, you can plant the bulbs in pots indoors about four to six weeks before you transfer them outside.
Where to Plant Elephant Ear Bulbs
Elephant ears need lots of room once they mature, so select a spot that allows at least 3 feet of space for each bulb to grow in a partially shaded area. Too much sun can scorch the leaves. The exception to this is the Black Magic variety of elephant ears, which does well in partial to full shade.
If you plant the elephant ear plant indoors, select a spot that has bright, filtered sunlight.
