Recently I was gifted an elephant ear. Upon removing it from the grower's pot, I notice that nearly the entire bulb was completely mush. The first photo is what was left, there are a few roots on either side. I potted it and I'm hoping for the best. Will it survive with the remaining roots? Or can it even survive with such a considerable amount of the bulb gone?
Thanks for any help!
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These types of plants don't need a lot of water and it seems that the plant was over watered for some time to make the bulb of the plant like this. I live in the tropics and this plant is abondumt here and I have plenty of them around my yard. The plant is easy to grow and also to transplant. I have split my plants more than once and the only thing they actually need is a few roots to take off and grow again.
These do need water and fertilizer but not excessive amounts of either. Plant probably only needs a good watering once a week and mild fertilizer once a month during growing season.
Of course, a pot that has excellent drainage is a must and I hope you used all new potting soil.
Usually it is best to dry the roots out a little before repotting but hopefully this one will survive.
I recently read that you can help to prevent root rot by spreading some non-flavored cinnamon (organic). After clean-up just sprinkle a thin layer onto the healthy parts before placing into a bed or pot of new soil.
Hydrogen Peroxide can be used to help supply healing oxygen and it's cheap.
Use about 1/2 cup to 2 cups water for a small plant and just splash it on the ground around the plant.
Do this about 3 times over a 2- or 3-month period after repotting.
These links have good general information as well as advice about root rot. Also, you can contact either of these sites and ask questions about this plant or any plant problems you may have in the future. You will have to join the group first.
www.ukhouseplants.com/
www.houzz.com/
This Elephant ear should be fine. It has roots to feed off of. I think it's great that you have it in a pot, This will help with getting your plant stronger than putting in the ground right away.
As long as there is some solid to the bulb, you still should get life and growth. I have actually found these to be quite invasive and persistent plants that are hearty even when you don't want them to be.
Everyone says they thrive best in sun with a lot of water. Mine (unfortunately because I decided I didn't want them where I had them) keep growing in the darkest and driest part of my yard. I keep digging them up and they keep coming back.
Good luck with yours!! Hope they thrive like mine do!
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