Alocasia is an exotic plant species that belongs to the Araceae family. These plants come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, making them a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardening. One way to expand your collection of Alocasia plants is through propagation. In this post, we will look at how to propagate Alocasia corms.
What are Alocasia Corms?
Corms are modified stems that function as underground storage organs for the plant. They store nutrients during winter or dry seasons, which enables the plant to grow again when conditions become favorable.
Alocasia Corms are usually brownish in color and have several nodes where leaves emerge from in subsequent growing seasons.
How to Propagate Alocasia Corms
There are two primary methods used to propagate Alocasia corms- division and offsets.
Division:
This method involves separating the mother plant into smaller portions while ensuring each section has at least one healthy rhizome/corm with roots attached.
To divide a mature Alocasia plant:
1) Remove it from its pot or garden bed
2) Gently shake off excess soil without damaging the corm
3) Identify sections with visible healthy roots
4) Divide these sections by carefully cutting them apart using sharp scissors or knife
5) Plant each divided portion into their own pots filled with well-draining soil mix
Offsets:
Offsets refer to small baby plants that sprout along the sides of an established mother corm.
To propagate using offsets:
1) Separate these tiny offshoots gently but firmly from their parent container/bed using smooth movements.
2) Prepare fresh potting mix (preferably peat moss based with perlite or vermiculite added)
3). Place each offset in separate pots filled with fresh soil mixture & water thoroughly.
4). Place newly potted offsets under bright indirect sunlight & moisten regularly.
Tips for Propagating Alocasia Corms:
1) Ensure the parent plant is mature enough and has a healthy root system
2) Use only sterile cutting tools to prevent infections of corms.
3) Provide optimal growing conditions, including warm temperatures (above 21°C), high humidity levels (between 60-80%), and well-draining soil mix with regular watering.
4). Keep newly propagated plants under indirect bright light until they establish roots before gradually introducing them to more direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Propagating Alocasia corms can be an exciting process that allows you to expand your collection. Whether through division or offsets, propagate these beautiful plants using proper techniques and care for successful growth. Remember always use clean tools, sterile pots and fresh potting mixes when handling sensitive plant species like Alocasia!
