Alocasia cultivation - the real situation

[Dave Brown]

Information from the Oglesby Laboratory
http://www.oglesbytc.com/culture-alocasia.html

ALOCASIA

Alocasia are undoubtedly among the most visually striking tropical foliage plants. They are suited for interior containers, the tropical landscape, or as Summer ‘annuals’ for a tropical look.

For active growth, Alocasia prefer daytime temperatures of 75 to 90°F (23-33°C) and minimum night temperatures of 65 to 70°F (18-21ºC). As a tropical understory plant, greenhouse light levels should be from 2000 to 4000 foot candles (21-43klux). In shade houses, grow under 60 to 73% shade. The plants will tolerate lower light levels, but may stretch and become floppy.

Use a well drained soilless growing medium of peat with ample perlite or bark to ensure good drainage. A 1:1:1 ratio works well. Adjust pH to 5.5 to 6.2. Use dolomitic limestone to adjust pH and as a source for both Calcium and Magnesium.

Fertilize with 20-20-20 at 200 to 250 ppm N, 14-14-14 with 6% Ca (150 to 200 ppm N), alternating with irrigations. If using dry fertilizers, incorporate a complete slow release blend which includes Magnesium and trace elements at a medium rate, 12 to 15 lbs. per cubic yard.

Alocasia are susceptible to the water molds, Pythium and Phytophthora, which are usually a result of over watering. The shade cloth grower may be challenged with Erwinia in the warm wet months.

Mites and Mealybugs are the primary pests of Alocasia.

Alocasia are subject to dormancy if subjected to prolonged periods of short day length and low temperatures. The entire visible plant can collapse quickly. If this occurs, dry down the medium until temperatures rise. The plants will begin to grow with fresh new foliage.


So ideal growing conditions are temps between 18 and 33C. but some growth will occur above 18C.
Light levels shade
Well drained compost. 1 part peat, 1 part perlite, 1 part bark.
Feed, Young plants need a balanced fertiliser, where as established plants can have a higher nitrogen content.
Problems - fungus/rots due to overwatering
Pests - Red Spider Mite and mealybug

[Melissa]

Pretty easy then

Melissa

[Palmer]

There is some very useful information on that site Dave,
its worth taking note and applying it to your own plants were possible.