Transplanting Elephant Ears & Bananas in Heat? Cut Back Foliage, Water Constantly, Provide Shade

Elephant ears transplanted in hot, dry conditions have dried-up leaves. Bananas transplanted earlier (May) thrive; recent ones struggle. Should ears be cut back?

Yes—Cut the Damaged Leaves

Remove yellow, wilted elephant ear leaves. They won't recover. The corm is alive and will push new growth if conditions improve.

Both Plants Need: Constant Moisture + Shade

• Elephant ears naturally grow in wet, shaded understories. They wilt fast without constant water.
• Bananas also need abundant water but show stress more slowly.
• Provide temporary shade cloth and irrigate daily until established.

Timing Matters

May transplants had mild weather to establish. Summer transplants face immediate heat stress. Extra care bridges the gap.