Transplanting Elephant Ears from Pots to Ground in Central US? Better in Pots—They're Cold-Tender

Elephant ear bulbs started indoors in pots are leafing out. Owner wants to plant in ground but fears harm. Advice?

Ground Planting Is Risky in Central US

Winter will kill the corms. Elephant ears are cold-sensitive.

Lots of water, fertilizer, and leaf misting. They thrive as mobile container plants.

Tropical Plants: Transplanting Trees and Shrubs: Timing and Technique; Moving 20-Year Walmart Roses 35 Miles: Heeling In and Transplant Protocol; Overwintering Elephant Ears (Colocasia): Dormancy Is Essential; Transplanting Mature Sago Palms: Why Professional Help Is Essential; Transplanting Large Royal Palms: Managing Stress and Establishment; Overwintering Black Magic Elephant Ears in Freezing Climates; Transplanting Elephant Ears for a Move: Dig, Pot, Hold; Transplanting Maui Ixoras in North Florida: Timing and Technique; Caring for Black Elephant Ears: Sun Exposure, Watering, Planting Depth, and Fertilizing; Transplanting Mature Elephant Ears: Managing Shock and Establishing Ideal Conditions

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