How to Plant Elephant Ear Bulbs

Elephant ears are large, lush green leaves that resemble actual elephant ears in both size and shape. These tropical fall bloomers stand out in any garden display and aren't that difficult to grow.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Elephant ear bulbs
• Compost
• Fertilizer

1. Select healthy elephant ear bulbs for planting. Make sure the bulb is firm, not soft.

2. Choose the right time of year for planting. Elephant ears bloom in early fall, so put them in the ground in spring. Make sure there's no danger of frost.

3. Put a border in the ground around the area where planting the bulbs because they tend to invade. Make sure the planting area gets partial sun or is a hot shaded area for the plants to thrive.

4. Till the soil, getting rid of any weeds and grass. Add in compost and a little fertilizer and mix well.

5. Look at the elephant ear bulb. One end will look like it has a bull's eye in the center. This is the top of the bulb and needs to be placed up when planted. If not certain which side is the top, plant the bulb sideways.

6. Put the bulb in the prepared garden area and cover it with 2 inches of soil. Water the elephant ear bulbs with warm water after covering. Space the bulbs 3-feet apart to give them plenty of room to grow. Growth will start to show in about 2 to 3 weeks.

7. Dig up the bulbs once cold weather hits the elephant ear. Clean off the dirt and let them dry out indoors. Store the elephant ear bulbs in a cool dry place and replant next spring.

Tips & Warnings

• Elephant ear bulbs can be toxic to pets and children.