Growing Elephant Ears from Bulbs

Gardening in Ypsilanti, MI

   Most bulbs are planted in the fall. They start to establish a root system in the later months of the year and need the cold winter temperatures in order to grow and bloom in the spring. There are some plants who's bulbs can be planted in the spring though. One of these is the tropical plant caladium, or elephants ear. Although it doesn't have showy flowers like tulips or crocuses, it has very interesting foliage that comes in a great variety of sizes and colors. Caladium makes a great addition to gardens. planter boxes or potted arraignments.  

Caladium bulbs from the previous year

    Caladium can be bought in pots but if you are willing to wait a few weeks and get your hands dirty, bulbs can be a cheaper alternative. Caladium is a tropical plant so bulbs have to be buried after the last chance of frost or started indoors. If planted directly in the ground, they will take a few weeks to sprout. During this time, it's important not to forget where they are and dig through them or let the area become overgrown with weeds. Most Caladium varieties prefer shady to partial shade and enjoy regular watering. As long as these conditions are met, you should have something interesting to look at all the way though the fall.
​   Since caladium is a tropical plant, most varieties will not survive a frost and come back the next year. During early October, you can choose to leave your caladium bulbs in the ground or dig them up so they can be replanted next spring. If you choose to dig them up, let them dry completely and store them in a dark, dry area. Caladium bulbs can be replanted for multiple years.

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   If you forgot to plant bulbs last fall and still want to plant some, give caladium a try. You can achieve a tropical look in your Michigan garden without the hokey feeling that plants like yuccas bring. Since they come in so many colors and sizes, there's something that will work in any space. Lastly, if you buy bulbs, you can make your yard look like a paradise without spending a fortune.