Alocasia plants, recognized for their striking, tropical foliage, grow from underground corms. These swollen, bulb-like structures store nutrients and energy, allowing the plant to survive less favorable conditions and initiate new growth. Acquiring corms offers an economical way to expand a plant collection, access unique varieties, and nurture a plant from its initial stage.
Where to Find Alocasia Corms
Alocasia corms can be purchased from various reputable sources. Online retailers specializing in houseplants, such as dedicated plant shops or platforms like Etsy and eBay, often provide a wide selection, including rare varieties. Online shopping offers convenience and diverse options, but check seller reviews and ratings to ensure corm quality and health upon arrival, as shipping can cause stress.
Local nurseries and garden centers also offer alocasia corms, especially seasonally. Buying locally allows in-person inspection for health and viability, though selection may be more limited than online.
Plant swaps and community gardening groups are excellent sources, often facilitating free or low-cost exchanges. These communities also connect growers and offer local growing insights.
Choosing Healthy Alocasia Corms
Choosing healthy alocasia corms is important for successful growth. Prioritize corms that feel firm and plump, indicating good hydration and stored energy. Avoid soft, mushy, shriveled, or moldy corms, as these indicate unhealthiness or rot.
Healthy corms are typically light brown to tan, sometimes with a subtle purplish tint. Discoloration, such as black spots, suggests fungal issues or decay and should be avoided. While larger corms generally possess more stored energy for sprouting, even smaller corms can develop into robust plants.
Look for visible “eyes” or growth points where new shoots and roots will emerge. A healthy corm has an earthy scent; a foul or rotten odor indicates decay.
Preparing and Planting Alocasia Corms
After acquiring alocasia corms, prepare them for successful sprouting. Upon arrival, inspect for transit damage and remove excess soil. Curing corms by air drying for a day or two is recommended; this heals minor abrasions and reduces rot risk.
Gently peeling the outer, papery layer (tunic) can accelerate germination by allowing easier moisture penetration, but do so cautiously to avoid damage. Pre-sprouting involves placing corms in a sealed container with a damp medium (e.g., sphagnum moss, perlite) to create a humid environment that encourages root and shoot development before potting.
For planting, use a well-draining, airy potting mix, such as an aroid mix with perlite, orchid bark, and coco coir. Position the corm just below the surface with the growth point facing upward. Lightly water the medium to make it moist but not soggy, preventing rot.
Caring for Your Growing Corms
Once alocasia corms show growth, provide appropriate environmental conditions for healthy plant development. Bright, indirect light is preferred, mimicking their natural habitat. Direct sunlight can scorch new leaves, while insufficient light hinders growth.
Keep the planting medium consistently moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Check soil moisture by feeling the top inch before watering.
Alocasias thrive in high humidity (ideally 60% or higher). Increase ambient humidity using pebble trays, a humidifier, or grouping plants. Temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C) are suitable for active growth.
Fertilize once active growth is established (typically a few leaves). Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, monthly during the growing season.
Solving Common Corm Problems
New growers may encounter common issues when cultivating alocasia corms. If a corm isn’t sprouting, patience is key; germination can take weeks or months. Inspect for rot and ensure consistent warmth, bright indirect light, and high humidity to encourage development.
Corm rot, indicated by mushy texture or foul odor, is common. If detected, remove the corm, trim affected areas with a clean tool, and air dry for a day before replanting in fresh, well-draining medium. Overwatering is a primary cause, so adjust watering practices.
Slow or stunted growth often results from insufficient light, low humidity, or nutrient deficiency. Reassess light levels, increase humidity, and ensure consistent fertilization once established to promote vigorous growth.