TS Paradises, a striking cultivar of Colocasia esculenta (commonly known as Elephant Ear), is celebrated for its dramatic presence in gardens and container displays. This plant showcases large, heart-shaped leaves that can reach impressive sizes, often with deep, almost black foliage. Its unique visual appeal creates an exotic and tropical atmosphere, making it a favored selection for gardeners seeking a bold statement and transforming spaces with its lush, oversized leaves.
Cultivating TS Paradises
Light Requirements
TS Paradises thrives in partial shade to full sun, adapting well to various light conditions. Darker-foliaged varieties benefit from more sunlight to maintain their rich color saturation. In regions with intense summer heat, providing some afternoon shade helps prevent leaf scorching, ensuring their vibrant appearance. Indoors, place the plant near a window with bright, indirect light, avoiding direct exposure that could lead to leaf burn.
Soil Preferences
The plant flourishes in rich, organically dense soil that remains consistently moist. Loamy soil is particularly suitable as it offers both sufficient nutrients and good moisture retention, while also allowing for adequate drainage. Maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 5.5 and 6.5, for healthy nutrient uptake. While TS Paradises tolerates clay and even boggy conditions, proper soil composition helps prevent waterlogging, which can hinder root health.
Watering Needs
Consistent moisture is important for TS Paradises, as it is a water-loving plant that thrives in perpetually damp conditions. The soil should never be allowed to dry out completely between watering sessions. During periods of high temperatures, container-grown plants may require daily watering to meet their hydration needs. While they tolerate wet feet, ensure good drainage to prevent stagnant water around the roots.
Temperature and Humidity
TS Paradises prefers warm and humid environments, with optimal growth occurring in temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). High humidity, ideally 50% or greater, supports lush foliage development. Temperatures consistently below 50°F (10°C) can cause damage. Misting the leaves or placing a humidifier nearby can help increase humidity levels.
Fertilization
During the active growing season, from spring through summer, fertilize monthly with a balanced or nitrogen-rich liquid feed to promote robust leaf growth and vibrant coloration. Apply the fertilizer directly to the soil at the base of the plant, taking care to avoid contact with the foliage to prevent burns. As cooler weather approaches in the fall and growth naturally slows, reduce the frequency and strength of fertilization.
Planting and Establishing Your Plant
Timing and Location
The ideal time to plant TS Paradises is in late spring, after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperatures have consistently warmed. Select a warm, sheltered location, allowing adequate space for the plant to reach its substantial mature size (up to 7 feet tall) and develop its impressive foliage without crowding.
Planting Method
When planting in the ground, enrich the planting hole with a generous amount of organic matter to provide a nutrient-rich foundation. For container cultivation, choose a large pot, approximately 10 inches (25cm) or more in diameter, ensuring it has sufficient drainage holes. If planting a corm, orient it with the pointed end facing upwards, burying it about 2 to 3 inches deep beneath the soil surface. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil and promote establishment.
Multiplying Your TS Paradises
Propagation Methods and Timing
TS Paradises can be readily multiplied through the division of its corms or rhizomes, as well as by separating offsets that form around the main plant. The most opportune times for propagation are either in the spring, as new growth begins to emerge, or during the winter dormancy period. Dividing the plant in spring allows the new divisions to establish themselves before the peak growing season.
Division Process
To propagate, carefully dig up the mature plant and gently separate the root system into smaller sections. Each section should ideally contain its own stem or at least an “eye” from which new growth can sprout. For any particularly thick or intertwined roots, a sharp, clean knife can be used to make precise cuts. Once separated, replant each new section at the same depth as the original plant, ensuring the corm is adequately covered. Water the newly planted divisions consistently to encourage root development and and provide the ongoing care required for mature plants.
Addressing Common Plant Issues
Nutrient Deficiencies and Pests
TS Paradises can sometimes exhibit yellowing leaves, which may indicate a deficiency in essential nutrients, signaling a need for regular fertilization. Various pests can affect these plants, including spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, thrips, and armyworms. Inspecting the undersides of leaves regularly helps to identify infestations early. Organic treatments like insecticidal soaps or neem oil can effectively manage many common pest problems.
Fungal Issues and Watering Problems
Fungal issues, such as leaf spots, can also occur, particularly in humid conditions. Taro leaf blight, caused by Phytophthora colocasiae, is a more serious fungal disease. Ensuring good air circulation around the plant helps to prevent the spread of fungal spores. In cases of blight, removing affected foliage and applying a copper-based fungicide can help mitigate the problem. Wilting or browning leaves can often be a direct result of insufficient watering, highlighting the plant’s need for consistent moisture.
Preparing for Winter
Winter Care for Cold Climates
TS Paradises is a tender perennial, hardy in USDA Zones 8 through 11, meaning it is not tolerant of freezing temperatures. In colder climates, it is typically grown as an annual or requires special winter care to survive. Before the first frost arrives in autumn, prepare the plant for dormancy by carefully digging up the corms from the ground and trimming the foliage back, leaving approximately 6 inches (15cm) of stem above the corm.
Corm Storage
After digging, clean any remaining soil from the corms and store them in a cool, dry, frost-free location where temperatures remain above 5°C (41°F). Storing them in a medium such as perlite, sand, or dry potting mix helps prevent them from completely drying out while dormant. Potted plants can be brought indoors, ideally into a cool room or a heated greenhouse, maintaining temperatures between 5-10°C (41-50°F) for dormancy or above 21°C (70°F) if active growth is desired. Water sparingly during winter storage, just enough to prevent the corms from shriveling.