Elephant Ear/Caladium Bulbs – Should I Store Them In Winter

caladium pot storing in winter

Q: I have several elephant ear and caladium bulbs in pots on my patio. When winter comes, can I just cut the stems off at the base and leave the bulbs in the pot, or must I pull the bulbs and store them in vermiculite? 

A: It is fine to leave the bulbs in their pots as long as they are kept dry. However, remember that the potting soil will be somewhat broken down into smaller particles this summer. This means the soil will not drain quite as well next year as your bulbs might like. Leave them in the pots this winter but plan to repot them in fresh soil next spring.

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