5 Reasons Your Elephant Ear Bulb Won’t Grow

March 29, 2023

We’ve all been there! You planted your Elephant Ear bulb and it’s been a few weeks and nothing is happening. I’ve got you covered and more than likely your bulb is just fine!

5 Reasons your Elephant Ear Bulb Has not Sprouted!

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It’s still dormant

Elephant ear bulbs can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to wake up. Patience is a virtue when you are starting Elephant Ear plants from bulbs.

It’s too wet

I hate to say it but overwatering is one of the big reasons why Elephant Ears do not sprout. It’s best to err on the side of caution when it comes to watering. Aim to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

It’s too Cold

When it comes to waking up elephant ear bulbs you will want to maintain a minimum temperature 65 degrees in order to spur the bulbs to break dormancy. Using a seed starting heat mat can help maintain warmth if your room or space is cool.

It’s too Dry

For your Elephant Ear Bulbs to break dormancy it needs to remain moist. Having a dry bulb in soil it not typically enough to encourage the bulbs to wake. For success water your bulbs when the soil has dried halfway down in the pot.

It Needs more time

I know that it can take a while but growing Elephant Ear Bulbs need time. When your bulbs are fully asleep it can take a while for them to wake all the way up. I have started bulbs in mid February only to have them wake up in June and July. Most if conditions are right wake up much sooner than that.

Tips

If you are worried about your bulb you can pull the soil back until you see the top of the bulb. Use your finger to press around the top to confirm that the bulb is still firm. If it is firm then your bulb is likely fine.

If when you pull back the soil and you see growth then you know your bulb is up and you can cover it back with soil and continue with regular care.

Elephant Ear Plants are no doubt gorgeous plants to have in your garden. They provide that tropical feel that for a second makes you think you are on an exotic vacation.

Happy Gardening

Ciearra