Some of the most eye catching houseplants, Alocasias are popular around the world with plant lovers drawn to their show stopping leaves and almost otherworldly quality. There are many species of Alocasia, so these can definitely add a tropical touch to your home. But if you want to have your Alocasia live happily indoors, it is best that you know how to take care of them and the different between species. In this guide, we will take a close look at everything you need to know about Alocasia plants, their care and maintenance, and finally finding the best variety suited to your home. No matter if you are new to plucking or growing Alocasia or just an indoor gardener, this guide on how to care for Alocasia gives applicable advice.
1. Alocasia: An Overview
What is Alocasia?
Alocasia: A genus of plants in the family Araceae, with large, leathery leaves and an attractive grower. Alocasia are native to tropical and subtropical climates in Asia and Eastern Australia where they experience high humidity conditions at warmer temperatures. They are a popular indoor gardening plant due to their dramatic arrowhead-shaped leaves.
2. What Type of Alocasia to Consider for Your Home?
Popular Alocasia Species
Alocasia is a genus containing many different types, each one with its special trait. Common ones available are :
Alocasia Polly: A hardy perennial plant with large dark green leaves and white veins.
Alocasia Frydek: An eye catching type with blackish velvety foliage.
Alocasia Amazonica: Leaves are glossy green with white veining.
Alocasia Zebrina With zebra striped stems.
3. Caring TipsA well-cared-for plant is a happy plant.
Light Requirements
They require bright, indirect light to grow well. They enjoy some direct sun (again, not scorch-fest afternoon rays that will fry the leaves).
Watering Needs
Moist: Alocasia always need slightly moist soil not be soggy. They do suffer from overwatering so make sure that the pot has some drainage holes and that the water does not build up at the bottom.
Humidity and Temperature
Alocasia does better with humidity above 60% but really so prefers all the humidity it can get! Put on a humidity tray or use a humidifier if you are living in dry climate area.
Soil Type
Alocasia favors slightly acidic, well draining soil. What kind of soil is best to use — A tropical plant/ houseplant mix that will keep moisture in, but not so much as to make it wet.
4. How to Propagate Alocasia
Methods of Propagation
The corms can then be separated into smaller pieces for propagation by division. Alocasia can also be propagated through stem cuttings and seeds. Ensure that each fragment has one viable root for the successful propagation of growth.
5. Alocasia Pests and Problems You May Encounter
Identifying Common Pests
Alocasia are susceptible to some pests such as, aphids, spider mites and mealybugs. Check your plants regularly for signs of infestation, such as brown patches or webs on the leaves.
Dealing with Yellow Leaves
Noticed yellowing leaves, this may be due to overwatering, too few nutrients or the plant standing in a cold draught. This issue can be fixed by adjusting the watering and keeping your plant in a nice warm spot.
6. How to Pick The Perfect Pot For Your Alocasia
Pot Size and Drainage
Select a pot that is no more than 1-2 inches larger than the root ball of your Alocasia. Make sure it has drainage holes so the excess water can drain out to avoid rotting in roots.
7. Why are you seeing dark edges on my Alocasia leaves? HOW.CARE GUIDE
Using the Right Fertilizer
Use a balanced water-soluble fertilizer for Alocasia plants. During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your plant every 4-6 weeks, but cut back on feeding in the fall and winter months when the plant is dormant.
8. How To Care For Alocasia In Dormancy
Why Alocasia Goes Dormant
Alocasia naturally has its winter dormancy period where it goes dormant with shorter days and cooler environments. In this period, lessen the watering and let it rest.
9. Where To Put Your Alocasia In the Living Room
Where To Locate Your Alocasia
To keep your Alocasia looking good and thriving, put it in a location with bright but indirect light — away from drafts or places where direct air conditioning blows. These are best kept around living rooms and bright hallways.
10. So, on that note: why Alocasia is an ideal houseplant
Rare and Easy Care
Alocasia plants are gorgeous and also fairly easy to care for in the right circumstances. The tropical look will spruces up the house.
11. How to Rescue a Failing Alocasia
Steps to Restore Health
If your Alocasia is dying, look out for pest problems, overwatering, or bad soil drainage. Replace dead leaves, modify your care routine and give the plant time to recover.
12. Feng Shui Alocasia- Everything You To Know About Bringing Balance into Your House
Symbolism of Alocasia
Alocasia is also known as elephant ear, and are believed from Feng Shui to bring luck, wealth and growth. When you put them in your home they bring positiveness to that area.
13. Alocasia Plant Care Checklist
Care Guide Summary
Light: High indirect light
Water: Soil should remain slightly moist; do not overwater.
Moisture: Yes, high levels of moist air are best
Soil well draining slightly acidic soil
14. On the Hunt for: Alocasia
Commonly sold types
Discover a variety of Alocasia from online and local nurseries such as the ever popular Alocasia Polly, Alocasia Frydek or the beautifully velvet Black Velvet all stunning eye catching decor plants!
15. Alocasia Plants for Sale Online
Trusted Online Retailers
It can be found at online plant stores and websites like Etsy, Amazon, or specialty nurseries with quality Alocasia plants. Finally, look at reviews and make sure the sellers have healthy plants.
With these tips and tricks, your Alocasia will live happy, healthy, vibrant lives in your home for years to come! No matter if you are new to gardening or a seasoned pro with house plants in hand, knowing the care and types of Alocasia will allow you to better utilize these gorgeous plants in your home.
