As a gardening and landscaping expert , I can provide you with some advice on leaving elephant ear bulb in the solid ground during the winter months . It is important to note that this recommendation use to Hardiness Zones 7 - 11 , where the climate is generally mild and more suitable for overwintering these plants in the ground .
In these zona , elephant ear bulbs can typically remain in the ground throughout the wintertime . However , it is crucial to take some precautions to protect them from the frigid temperature and potential Robert Lee Frost damage . One path to do this is by covering the lightbulb with a stratum of insulation .
Before the first frost get , allow the fore of your plants to naturally conk back . cut them prematurely can increase the jeopardy of buncombe and damage to the bulbs . Once the leaf has fade , you could edit it back to ground level . It is all important to await until this stage as the dying leaves aid provide nutrient to the bulb for next year ’s growth .
After cutting back the foliage , you could proceed to cover the bulbs . One effective method is to expend chopped - up leave of absence and lawn grass as insulation . Spread a layer of these material over the bulb , aiming for a heaviness of around 4 - 6 column inch . This layer will provide insulation and help protect the medulla oblongata from freeze down temperature .
you’re able to also consider using other case of organic mulch , such as straw or woods chips , to cover the bulbs . However , keep in mind that these materials should not be packed too tightly , as the bulbs call for some airflow to prevent putrefaction .
Another choice is to expend a frost mantle or burlap to cover the bulbs . This can allow for extra security from the cold weather . Secure the coverings firmly but see to it that there is still some airflow to keep overweening wet buildup .
It is essential to regularly supervise the cover electric-light bulb throughout the winter . If there are prolonged periods of extremely low temperatures or heavy frost , you may need to provide extra insulation or consider jab up the electric light and storing them indoors until the weather meliorate .
In my personal experience , I have successfully overwintered elephant ear bulbs in Zone 8 by following these guidelines . By allowing the foliage to expire back naturally , handle the bulb with constitutional materials , and monitoring the atmospheric condition weather , I was able-bodied to protect my plants and insure their natural selection for the next grow season .
To sum up , in Hardiness Zones 7 - 11 , elephant ear bulbs can be leave in the primer coat over winter . However , it is essential to cover them with detachment , such as chopped - up leaves and lawn grass , to protect them from freezing temperature . Regular monitoring and extra insularity may be necessary during periods of utmost cold . By follow these recommendations , you may increase the chance of your elephant ear bulbs outlive the wintertime and thriving in the following year .
Caroline Bates
