Elephant Ears

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birdie Salina, UT(Zone 4a) Apr 24, 2001

Has anyone ever started these?
A friend of mine has bought them and tried them for three years now withought success. She has tried them outside and inside and now she needs some new ideas.
I told her that all of the world's experts reside here, so I'm sure that someone can help her. Any ideas?
Thanks, birdie

Post #4059
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frank Richfield Springs, NY(Zone 4a) Apr 24, 2001

I planted quite a few bulbs and never had trouble with them. I put some in the garden last year, and dug the bulbs in the fall, and I have one growing in the greenhouse right now. I never gave them any special care, just put the bulb in the soil and watered them. They don't seem to get anywhere near as big in a pot as in the garden.

Post #70526
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Cash Apr 25, 2001

I too have had the same problems with the ears just not my luck i guess, well try again maybe someday so I too can have ears also. Good luck Birdie.

P.S. My grandma was name Birdie how much i loved her. She was a great gardener hope she can see my garden from heaven she would be proud of her grandson.

Post #70861
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Gayl Julian, WV Apr 25, 2001

Hi Birdie,
I have raise elephant ears for several years now and like Frank I just put them in the ground and water if needed. I also dig them up in the fall as not wanting to take the chance of loosing them in the winter.

Post #70876
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sunflower Olive Branch, MS(Zone 7b) Apr 26, 2001

They like a lot of water, and lots of times you see them in bog gardens. Mine are in shade here, and seem to be happy. They come back year after year, and I've given the baby bulbs to all of my friends.

What is the source for your bulbs? Some retailers may not sell ones that are treated well enough in storage to survive.

Post #70914
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BotanyBob Thousand Oaks, CA Apr 27, 2001

I am assuming you are referring to Colcasia macrorhiza? Here in So CAl these grow without any extra care, though the more water you give the better. In Utah, where it's REALLY dry, I would expect daily, if not 2x a day watering in warmer seasons would be important. They tolerate sun here OK, but I doubt in Utah they would. Of the Alocasias and Calocasias, this species seems to be the most cold, drought hardy.

Post #71342
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