The Elephant Ear plant, encompassing species like Colocasia and Alocasia, is a tropical perennial prized for its dramatically large, heart-shaped foliage. These fast-growing plants immediately lend a lush, exotic feel to any landscape during the warmer months. As tropical specimens, they are intolerant of freezing temperatures, which is the primary consideration for gardeners in USDA Hardiness Zone 7. This zone is defined by average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 0°F to 10°F, meaning Elephant Ears cannot reliably survive the winter outdoors without significant protection.
Determining the Optimal Planting Time in Zone 7
The most important factor for planting Elephant Ear bulbs is the temperature of the soil itself. These warm-weather plants will only begin to sprout when the soil is consistently warm, ideally reaching 65°F or higher. Planting the corms too early into cold, damp ground increases the risk of rot or a prolonged period of dormancy. Therefore, the general window for planting in Zone 7 is late spring to early summer, safely after the last expected frost date.
Gardeners should aim to plant one to two weeks following the average last frost, which often places the optimal time between late April and early June. Measuring the soil temperature with a thermometer at a depth of four inches over several consecutive days is the most accurate method to confirm conditions are suitable. Delaying planting beyond early June can shorten the overall growing season, limiting the time the plant has to produce its signature large leaves and develop a strong root system before autumn.
Essential Steps for Successful Planting
Elephant Ears thrive best in a location that receives full sun to partial shade, though varieties like Colocasia often prefer partial shade to prevent leaf scorch. The soil must be rich in organic matter and well-draining, yet capable of retaining consistent moisture, as these plants are native to swampy environments. Amending the planting area with compost or aged manure helps create the loamy texture that supports vigorous growth.
When placing the corm into the prepared hole, ensure it is oriented with the smoother, often slightly pointed side facing upward. The planting depth varies, but generally the corm should be covered by about one to two inches of soil, or up to six inches for particularly large specimens. After covering the corm, the area should be watered deeply and thoroughly to settle the soil and initiate the growth process.
Ongoing Care and Seasonal Maintenance
Once established, Elephant Ears require substantial and consistent moisture throughout the growing season to support their rapid development and large leaf structure. They typically need at least two to three inches of water per week, and container-grown plants may need daily watering during periods of heat. Allowing the soil to dry out will cause the plant to struggle and the foliage to wilt.
These plants are heavy feeders due to their fast growth rate and size. To encourage the largest possible leaves, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every three to four weeks from the time the plant sprouts until late summer. Regular inspection for yellowing or browning leaves is necessary, and any declining foliage should be cleanly cut back near the base of the plant to maintain appearance and direct energy toward new growth.
Preparing Elephant Ears for Winter
Because Zone 7 is on the edge of the plant’s survival range, winter protection is a necessity to ensure the corms return the following spring. Gardeners typically utilize one of two methods for overwintering the corms.
In-Ground Protection
One method is to leave the corms in the ground after the foliage is naturally killed back by the first frost. For this approach, cut the stalks down to six inches and apply a thick, insulating layer of mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, over the planting area.
Indoor Storage
The most reliable method is digging up the corms for indoor storage. Wait until after the first light frost has caused the foliage to collapse, then carefully lift the corms from the soil. After allowing them to cure in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated location for about one to two weeks, the corms should be stored in a cool, dark, and frost-free place, such as a garage or basement. Packing the dried corms in a breathable material like peat moss or sawdust protects them from moisture and premature sprouting until they can be replanted the following spring.