If your Alocasias are part of the three leaf club this post is for you! For years I struggled to keep more that three leaves at a time on my plants. As soon as a new leaf would emerge an older leaf would die off. I took it upon myself to figure out why this was always happening to me and what I found is that it’s not just me. Many Alocasia plant parents struggled with the same issue. Before we dive into how to grow more than three leaves lets get a little Alocasia history.
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Alocasias are a genus of over 100 species of tropical plants in the arum family (Araceae). They are native to Southeast Asia, Polynesia, and Australia, and are known for their stunning foliage. Alocasias have large, heart-shaped or arrow-shaped leaves that can be up to 3 feet long. The leaves are often variegated with different shades of green, purple, and white. Some species of alocasias also have metallic or velvety leaves.
Alocasias are very popular houseplants because of their beauty and ease of care for the most part. They are relatively low-maintenance plants that can thrive in a variety of conditions. However, it is important to note that alocasias are sensitive to cold temperatures and drafts. They should be placed in a warm, humid spot in your home with bright, indirect light.
Popular alocasia varieties
There are many different varieties of alocasias available, each with its own unique features. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Alocasia ‘Polly’: This variety is known for its dark green leaves with silvery veins.
- Alocasia ‘Sanderiana’: This variety has large, velvety leaves with a metallic sheen.
- Alocasia ‘Zebrina’: This variety has dark green leaves with zebra-like stripes.
- Alocasia ‘Black Velvet’: This variety has velvety black leaves with purple veins.
- Alocasia ‘Stingray’: This variety has arrow-shaped leaves with a metallic sheen.
- Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’: This variety has large, dark green leaves with silver and white veins.
How to Grow Alocasias
- Choose the right pot and potting mix. Alocasia plants prefer a well-draining potting mix. You can use a pre-made potting mix for aroids or make your own by mixing equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Choose a pot with drainage holes in the bottom.
- Place your alocasia plant in a bright, indirect location. Alocasia plants can tolerate some low light, but they will grow best in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves. If you have low light in your home you may want to consider adding
- Water your alocasia plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater. Alocasia plants like moist soil, but their roots should never be sitting in water. Water your plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilize your alocasia. Fertilizing your alocasia is key to your plant holding onto more than three leaves. I suggest fertilizing on the weekly weakly schedule. Meaning, you will fertilize with a diluted fertilizer every time you water your plant.
- Mist your alocasia plant regularly to increase humidity. Alocasia plants prefer moderate to high humidity. You can also increase humidity around your plant by placing it on a pebble tray or grouping it with other plants. The best way to provide consistent humidity is to add a humidifier.
Alocasias Common pests and diseases
Alocasia plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. You can treat these pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Alocasia plants can also be affected by root rot, which is caused by overwatering. If you think your plant has root rot, you will need to repot it in fresh potting mix and remove any dead or dying roots.
Troubleshooting:
- Yellow leaves: Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency. Make sure you are watering your plant correctly and that you are fertilizing it regularly.
- Brown leaves: Brown leaves can be a sign of underwatering, low humidity, or sunburn. Make sure you are watering your plant correctly and that the humidity around your plant is high enough. Avoid placing your plant in direct sunlight.
- Drooping leaves: Drooping leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or root rot. Check the moisture level of the soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. If the soil is soggy, the plant may have root rot. In this case, you will need to repot the plant and remove any dead or dying roots.
Now that you know how to grow alocaisas, your plants will be on their way to being full and lush!
Happy Gardening!