Winterizing Elephant Ears In Pots

November 16, 2024 Post a Comment

Winterizing elephant ears in pots

Potted Plants Potted elephant ears plants survive winter well when left in the dirt inside their containers. Move the pots to a frost-free spot where they aren't exposed to rain so the soil in the pot remains dry during dormancy.

Should I cut back my elephant ears for winter?

Once the first frost has arrived you will need to cut the stems of your elephant ear plant down to 6” in height. Then gently dig the tubers from the ground. Be careful not to cause any damage as this could impact their survival rate. Damaged tubers are much more likely to rot over the winter months.

Will potted elephant ears grow back?

Are elephant ear plants perennials? Most are perennials in Zone 9 and warmer, where they will come back each summer. If gardening in cooler zones, you can treat them as annuals or dig up the tubers before the first frost and keep them in a cool, dry place over winter.

How do you winterize outdoor potted plants?

First, you can bury the entire pot in the ground and cover it with soil or mulch. The surrounding soil acts as insulation. A second method is to move the pots to an unheated garage, shed, cold frame, or basement. Check the soil moisture periodically, but don't overwater or you may get root rot.

Do elephant ears grow better in pots or ground?

But remember the best thing to do is to start that elephant ear in a temporary pot and then move it

How do you take care of elephant ear plants in pots?

Elephant ears like to stay consistently moist but not soggy. Be especially careful with watering if you use a pot without drainage holes. Always test the soil with your finger first. Humidity is also important to elephant ears, so it's a good idea to set the pot in a saucer of water elevated by pebbles.

When should I cut down my elephant ears?

Cut back an elephant ear plant two or three days after the first killing frost when the foliage turns brown. Sterilize sharp pruning shears and don gloves. Snip off the leaves near the base of the plant, leaving about 2 inches above the ground.

Are you supposed to cut down elephant ears?

Pruning Elephant Ears Regular pruning will help to keep this large leaf plant in shape. The leaves will naturally droop as they age. Drooping leaves can be cut off with a sharp blade. Yellowing or brown leaves can be cut off at the stem.

What do you do with elephant ear plants in the winter?

Put the tubers in a grocery bag, plastic pot or bulb rate and cover with a mix of peat moss and soil. Add water to the container and store it in a cool, dark place to ensure the tuber stays dormant throughout the winter. Keep your Elephant Ears moist but not wet.

Can I bring elephant ears indoors for winter?

Option 1: Bring Them Indoors Elephant ears can be moved indoors and grown as a houseplant during the winter months. To give it the best growing conditions place it in a bright, south-facing window. They also need warm temperatures in the 70s and plenty of water. Also, elephant ears require humid growing conditions.

Will elephant ears grow year round indoors?

Indoor Houseplant Upright elephant ears can also be grown indoors as long the plants get enough light and water. Their attractive foliage can be an exciting feature all year round.

What should I cover my potted plants with in the winter?

Wrap pots in burlap, bubble wrap, old blankets or geotextile blankets. It isn't necessary to wrap the entire plant because it's the roots that need shielding. These protective coverings will help to trap heat and keep it at the root zone.

Can I leave perennials in pots over winter?

You can overwinter potted perennials by placing them in an unheated garage or shed – this can protect the plant from extreme fluctuations. Check on the pot occasionally to make sure it doesn't dry out, and don't keep them somewhere that is heated – all perennials need a period of dormancy.

When should I winterize my potted plants?

Whatever measures you take to protect your potted perennials for winter should be implemented a week or so before the first frost is expected. But be aware that some plants are much more susceptible to cold than others.

What kind of pots do elephant ears like?

Tips for Growing Elephant Ears in Containers

Choose a container that's at least 18 inches wide and 16 inches deep for Colocasia varieties, or 36 inches wide for the larger Alocasia varieties.
The container should be made of a nonporous material, such as plastic, fiberglass or glazed clay, rather than plain terra cotta.

How often do you water elephant ears in pots?

Containers will need to be watered daily during the summer. Plan on giving plants at least 2-3 inches of water per week. Fertilizing: Elephant ears are heavy eaters, as well as drinkers.

What happens if you touch an elephant ear plant?

Elephant Ears are poisonous to children. Touching the stems or leaves can cause skin irritation and possibly a rash and itching. Eating the leaves, stems, or sap can cause a burning sensation in the mouth and throat and lead to swelling.

Can I cut my elephant ear bulbs in half?

Dividing elephant ears is easy! Once you have selected your pups, it is time to remove them. Use a sharp knife or your shovel and bisect the section away from the parent. Tubers cut cleanly with a texture like a potato.

How do you save elephant ear bulbs for next year?

How to prep elephant ear bulbs for storage over the winter

Step 1: Dig up the bulbs.
Step 2: Clean the elephant ear bulbs off.
Step 3: Store to dry.
Step 4: Store for the long winter.

Do elephant ears like to be root bound?

Elephant ear plants don't need to be repotted that often and actually do better when they are slightly pot bound. Plants that become too large for their pots have been known to crack the plastic so you know it's time for a new one!