Harvesting elephant ear bulbs is an essential task for preserving these tropical plants through the winter or for propagating new plants. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you properly harvest and store elephant ear bulbs.
When to Harvest
Timing
- End of Growing Season: Harvest the bulbs in late fall, before the first frost. The leaves will typically begin to yellow and die back, indicating that the plant is entering dormancy.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Garden Fork or Shovel: For digging up the bulbs.
- Pruning Shears: For cutting back foliage.
- Gloves: To protect your hands.
- Brush or Cloth: For cleaning the bulbs.
- Storage Containers: Such as paper bags, mesh bags, or cardboard boxes.
- Peat Moss or Sawdust: To pack around the bulbs for storage.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Plant
- Watering: Water the plant thoroughly a day before you plan to harvest. This makes the soil easier to work with.
Step 2: Cut Back Foliage
- Trim Leaves: Using pruning shears, cut back the leaves to about 6 inches above the bulb. This reduces the size of the plant and makes it easier to handle.
Step 3: Dig Up the Bulbs
- Loosen the Soil: Use a garden fork or shovel to loosen the soil around the bulb. Start digging a few inches away from the base of the plant to avoid damaging the bulb.
- Lift the Bulb: Gently lift the bulb from the soil. If the bulb is large, you may need to dig deeper and work around the bulb to free it completely.
Step 4: Clean the Bulbs
- Remove Soil: Brush off excess soil from the bulb using a brush or cloth. Do not wash the bulbs, as excess moisture can lead to rot during storage.
- Inspect: Check for any signs of damage or rot. Discard any bulbs that are soft, moldy, or damaged.
Step 5: Cure the Bulbs
- Drying: Place the bulbs in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area for about one week. This allows the outer skin to dry and harden, which helps prevent rot during storage.
Step 6: Store the Bulbs
- Prepare Storage Material: Fill storage containers with peat moss, sawdust, or vermiculite.
- Pack the Bulbs: Place the cured bulbs in the storage material, ensuring they are not touching each other. Cover them completely with the packing material.
- Label: Label the containers with the type of bulb and the date of harvest.
Step 7: Store in a Cool, Dry Place
- Location: Store the containers in a cool, dry place with temperatures between 50-60°F (10-15°C). Basements or unheated garages can be ideal storage locations.
- Check Periodically: Inspect the bulbs periodically for signs of rot or mold. Remove any affected bulbs immediately to prevent spreading.
Replanting in Spring
- Prepare Soil: In early spring, prepare the planting site with well-draining soil enriched with compost.
- Planting Depth: Plant the bulbs 4-6 inches deep, with the pointed end facing up.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can successfully harvest and store elephant ear bulbs, ensuring that your plants thrive for years to come. Proper harvesting and storage techniques are key to maintaining the health and vitality of these stunning tropical plants. Enjoy the process and the beautiful results in your garden!
