Knowledgebase

Elephant ear problem #877392

Asked July 15, 2024, 9:06 PM EDT

Hello, what could be causing this young plant to have brown areas on two leaves? It is in a large pot that gets full sun from early afternoon to early evening.

Anoka County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Morning Mark, 

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service. 

Please click on the following link about elephant ear plants: https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/elephant-ears-colocasia-alocasia-and-xanthosoma/

This information states:

Provide copious water and fertilizer as the plants grow, especially for those in containers, as they are heavy feeders.

I would inspect the underside of the leaves for any signs of mold, fungus or pest.  There is not a pest or disease of colocasia that I am aware of. 

Do you have drainage holes in the bottom of your pot? I know from personal experience these plants use lots and LOTS of water. I have place my container of elephant ear in a container that has a large tray under it. I fill the tray with water everyday, and water the container, if it has not rained.  These plants grow very well with their feet (roots) in water. 

I would put a tray under your pot, assuming it has drainage holes. Fill the tray with water every day and consider fertilizing the plant.  The plant will absorb the water from the tray. As the plant begins to thrive, prune off the damaged leaves. 

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied July 16, 2024, 8:35 AM EDT
Thank you so much Maureen!  You Master Gardeners just rock!

I likely need to water more, and feed. Would you use Miracle Grow or something else? It it potted up with good compost (leaf/grass/last year's horse manure).

The pot is a nursery pot, it has holes. I will need to find tray. 

Thanks again!

Mark 


Sent from my T-Mobile 5G Device


-------- Original message --------
From: Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>>
Date: 7/16/24 7:35 AM (GMT-06:00)
To: markpayette <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Elephant ear problem (#0147310)

The Question Asker Replied July 16, 2024, 7:29 PM EDT

Mark, 

Yes, I use a fertilizer like Miracle Grow. We recommend using 1/2 the recommended amount but fertilize more often. 

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied July 18, 2024, 7:32 AM EDT
Thank you!



Sent from my T-Mobile 5G Device


-------- Original message --------
From: Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>>
Date: 7/18/24 6:32 AM (GMT-06:00)
To: markpayette <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Elephant ear problem (#0147310)

The Question Asker Replied July 18, 2024, 8:59 AM EDT

You are welcome!

Maureen Graber Replied July 18, 2024, 9:14 PM EDT

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