-
Colocasia 'Pharaoh's Mask,' commonly known as elephant ear, is a tropical plant that can be grown outdoors in the UK during the warmer months. Here are some care instructions for keeping your Colocasia 'Pharaoh's Mask' healthy outdoors:
-
Sunlight: Choose a location that receives partial shade to full sun. Morning sun and filtered afternoon sunlight are ideal. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's important to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
-
Soil: Colocasia 'Pharaoh's Mask' prefers moist, well-draining soil. Amend the soil with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.
-
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Check the moisture level regularly by inserting your finger into the soil. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. During hot summer days, you may need to water it more frequently.
-
Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and insulate the soil. This is particularly important during cooler weather to protect the plant's rhizomes from frost.
-
Fertilizer: Colocasia 'Pharaoh's Mask' benefits from regular feeding during the growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer according to the package instructions. Additionally, you can supplement with a liquid fertilizer every few weeks to promote healthy growth.
-
Temperature and Frost Protection: Colocasia 'Pharaoh's Mask' is not frost tolerant, so it's important to protect it during colder months. As autumn approaches and temperatures drop, you can either bring the plant indoors or carefully dig up the rhizomes, store them in a dry and cool place, and replant them in the following spring.
-
Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for common garden pests like aphids, spider mites, or snails. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate insecticides or organic pest control methods. Proper air circulation and avoiding overwatering can help prevent fungal diseases.
-
Pruning: Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves as they occur. Pruning can also help control the size and shape of the plant, but avoid excessive pruning, as the leaves are essential for the plant's growth.
