How and When to Propagate Elephant Ears

Elephant ear plants, known for their large, dramatic leaves, add a tropical feel to any garden or home. Propagation is the process of creating new plants from an existing parent plant. Gardeners propagate these plants to create more at no cost, manage the size of a large plant, or share them with others while keeping the parent plant healthy.

When to Propagate Elephant Ears

The best time to propagate elephant ears is during their dormancy, typically in the fall, or just before new growth starts in early spring. Propagating during this phase puts less stress on the plant as it is not in a state of active growth, increasing the likelihood of success.

A clear sign that an elephant ear is ready is overcrowding. In a pot, you might see roots growing out of the drainage holes or on the soil’s surface. In a garden bed, the plant may look too dense, with smaller shoots, called pups, appearing around the main plant’s base. Before beginning, gather a few tools: a sharp, sterilized knife or spade, new pots with good drainage, and a well-draining potting mix.

Propagation by Division

A common method for propagating elephant ears, especially for Colocasia varieties, is dividing the main underground tuber. Begin by carefully digging up the entire plant, taking care not to damage the tuber. Gently wash the soil from the root system to get a clear view of its structure.

You will notice several growth points, or “eyes,” on the tuber’s surface from which new leaves will sprout. Use your sterilized knife to separate the tuber into sections, ensuring each new piece has at least one prominent eye. After cutting, let the cut surfaces dry and form a callus for a day or two before replanting. This step helps prevent the raw surfaces from rotting in moist soil.

Propagation from Offsets

Another technique is separating small offsets, or “pups,” that grow around the base of the mother plant. This method is common for Alocasia varieties and is less intensive than dividing a tuber. Carefully remove soil from the plant’s base to expose where the pups are attached.

Gently pull a pup away from the main plant; a healthy one will have some of its own roots already formed. If it does not separate easily, use your knife to make a careful cut at the connection point. This method thins out the parent plant, giving it more room to grow, and the separated pups can be potted immediately.

Caring for New Plants

Plant the new tubers or offsets in an appropriately sized pot, allowing a few inches of space for growth. Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent rot; an unglazed ceramic pot can also help by allowing excess moisture to evaporate. Maintain a consistent watering schedule, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Place the newly potted plants in a location that receives bright, indirect light, as direct sun can be too harsh for a vulnerable plant. It is normal for new plants to experience some transplant shock, which may appear as wilting or a temporary halt in growth. New leaf growth is a good indication that the propagation was successful.