The Amazon Elephants Ear plant, also known by its scientific name Alocasia amazonica, is an increasingly popular houseplant admired for its uniquely shaped, gigantic leaves that resemble an elephant’s ears However, these tropical beauties are prone to rotting, which can quickly ruin the plant if left unchecked
At our plant nursery, rotting Elephants Ear plants are one of the most common issues we encounter. Therefore we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide on how to prevent your precious Amazon Elephants Ear plant from rotting so you can enjoy its stunning foliage for years to come.
What Causes Rot in Amazon Elephants Ear Plants?
Before diving into prevention methods, it’s important to understand what causes rot in the first place. The main culprits are:
-
Overwatering – Wet, soggy soil leads to root rot These plants prefer moist but not soaked soil
-
Poor drainage – Excess moisture gets trapped in the soil and roots, encouraging fungal and bacterial growth. Proper drainage is key.
-
Low light – Insufficient light weakens the plant over time, making it susceptible to infections.
-
Cold drafts – Fluctuating temperatures stress the plant, allowing pathogens to take hold.
-
Poor air circulation – Stagnant air promotes fungal growth. Good airflow discourages rot pathogens.
-
Pests or diseases – Bugs, fungi and bacteria can directly or indirectly cause rot.
Now let’s explore how to tackle each of these causes and keep your Elephants Ear rot-free.
Step-by-Step Guide to Prevent Rot in Elephants Ear Plant
Follow these tips diligently to prevent tragic rotting of your precious Elephants Ear plant:
Get the Watering Right
Overwatering is the fastest way to cause rot, so proper watering technique is critical.
-
Always check the top 1-2 inches of soil before watering. Only water when the top layer is partly dry.
-
When watering, drench the soil thoroughly until water drains from the bottom holes. This encourages deep, healthy roots.
-
Never leave the pot sitting in water. Empty the drainage tray promptly after watering.
-
Use a moisture meter to take the guesswork out of deciding when to water.Aim for a reading of 3-4 on the scale.
-
Water less frequently in winter when growth slows.
Ensure Excellent Drainage
Good drainage prevents standing water in the pot, allowing oxygen to reach the roots.
-
Use containers with bottom drainage holes so excess water can escape.
-
Opt for porous, well-draining potting mixes, adding perlite if needed.
-
Place pebbles or gravel in the base of the pot to improve drainage.
-
Empty excess water from the saucer after watering so the pot isn’t sitting in it.
Give the Right Amount of Bright, Indirect Light
Low light leaves the Elephants Ear weak and vulnerable to rot pathogens. But direct sun scorches the leaves. Find the sweet spot of bright, indirect light.
-
East or west-facing windows are ideal spots for these plants.
-
Rotate the pot periodically so all sides get even light exposure.
-
Use sheer curtains to filter harsh direct sunlight from south or west windows.
-
Supplement with grow lights if needed during winter months.
Increase Humidity
The tropical Amazon Elephants Ear thrives in humid conditions between 60-80%. Low humidity causes stress.
-
Use a humidifier or pebble tray near the plant to add moisture to the air.
-
Mist the leaves every few days to supplement humidity.
-
Group plants together to create a self-contained humid microclimate.
Maintain Ideal Temperatures
Avoid cold drafts and fluctuating temperatures that can shock the plant.
-
Keep the plant around 70°F – 80°F, the preferred temperature range.
-
Keep away from drafty doors, AC vents, windows in cold weather.
-
Move to a warmer spot in winter if needed.
Improve Air Circulation
Stagnant air allows fungal and bacterial growth to take hold. Keep air moving around your Elephants Ear.
-
Use circulating fans on low speed pointed away from the plant.
-
Space plants properly to allow air flow between them.
-
Move plants outdoors in summer to get fresh air circulation.
Inspect Frequently for Pests
Pests like spider mites, mealybugs and aphids can all lead to rot if left uncontrolled.
-
Check leaf undersides, stems, soil for bugs. Treat immediately if found.
-
Isolate new plants to prevent pests spreading.
-
Remove affected parts immediately to prevent spreading.
-
Use organic sprays as preventative measures.
Practice Good Hygiene
Prevent bacteria and fungi from traveling on your tools.
-
Sterilize shears in alcohol after pruning.
-
Wash pots and trays with soap before use.
-
Avoid water splashing on leaves which spreads disease.
-
Remove dead leaves promptly to prevent decay from spreading.
Early Signs of Rot in Elephants Ear
Catching rot early is crucial to save the plant, so learn these early warning signs:
-
Soft, mushy stems that collapse easily
-
Yellow, translucent leaves
-
Brown, mushy roots with foul odor
-
Leaf drop
-
White fungal growth on soil or plants
-
Wilt despite watering
What to Do if Your Elephants Ear Plant is Rotting
If you spot rot early, there’s a chance you can save your plant. Take quick action with these steps:
-
Remove the plant from soil and wash roots to inspect for rot.
-
Trim off any black, mushy roots or stems with sterile shears.
-
Spray remaining roots and leaves with hydrogen peroxide.
-
Repot in fresh sterile potting mix amended with compost.
-
Move to warmer location with indirect sunlight and high humidity.
-
Treat with organic anti-fungal spray weekly.
With diligence and care in providing the proper growing conditions, you can avoid the nightmare of rot and keep your Amazon Elephants Ear thriving for years of enjoyment. Use this comprehensive guide to give your plant the best shot at staying vigorous and rot-free. Let us know if you have any other tips for preventing rot in Elephants Ear plants!
Why are the leaf tips on my Alocasia browning?
Leaves turning brown just on the edges or tips. These edges may gradually change from yellow to brown, crispy, and possibly a bit curled.
Browning just on the edges of tips is usually a reaction to low humidity. Since many of our houseplants have tropical origins, they also thrive in humid conditions. Our average indoor humidity is usually adequate, but some plants are simply more sensitive to changes in humidity than others. You may notice this more acutely when conditions are particularly dryâlike when you turn on the heater in winter.
Try to accommodate your plants needs by locating them in more naturally humid places, like the bathroom or kitchen, or grouping a bunch of humidity-loving plants together. But the only way to truly guarantee increased humidity is to get a humidifier!
Once youve addressed the problem: If the brown tips bother you, you can trim them back. Do your best to follow the shape of the leaf to help them look natural. Also, try to cut just short of the discolored edge so it doesnât expand.
Why is my Alocasia dropping leaves?
Leaves dropping in droves! Most or all leaves have suddenly died off.
Alocasia are known to go into dormancy when theyre receiving insufficient light and temperatures drop suddenly or significantly (like winter). Dormancy means the plant wants to conserve energy while it awaits better conditions, so they may drop most or all their leaves. But dormant doesnt mean dead!
While it can be shocking to see a plant drop all their leaves, dont despair. Continue caring for your plant by keeping it in a brighter, warmer spot, reduce your watering, and wait for spring! You should see new leaves sprouting and a speedy return to their former glory. Sadly, you cant prevent winter, but as the season approaches you may be able to avoid dormancy by moving your plant to a slightly warmer and brighter spot to counteract the sudden change.
How to save a dying/rotting ALOCASIA super easy
How do you care for Amazonian elephant’s ear?
Amazonian elephant’s ear requires indirect. An east-facing room is perfect as it will provide less intense light later in the day. If exposed to direct sunlight, their large green leaves can start to burn or fade. Amazonian elephant’s ear needs its soil to be kept fairly moist. These plants require a good amount of water.
How do you care for an elephant ear plant?
Because their leaves are so large, Amazonian elephant’s ear plants can quickly collect a fine layer of dust. To keep them clean, wipe them down with a slightly damp cloth or sponge. Despite their need for water, Amazonian elephant’s ear plants need slightly acidic soil that drains well and lets oxygen flow through the soil.
Do elephant ear plants need repotting?
Avoid fertilizing the plant in the autumn and winter to avoid interfering with winter dormancy. Plant recommendation tip: looking for a non toxic plant, then check out the fiery Calathea crocata. To support its huge leaves, Amazonian elephant’s ear grows fairly fast and will need repotting yearly. Only move up one pot size at a time.
Why is my Elephant ear plant drooping?
Don’t let these common problems hold you back. If your elephant ear plant is showing any signs of stress such as yellowing, drooping, or spotting on the leaves, withhold fertilizer and correct any issues with over/under watering, light exposure, temperature and humidity levels first, Berg explains.