how often should i water my african mask

Full Answer

Why do African mask plants need to be cleaned?

Is African Mask Plant Toxic?

What is an elephant's ear?

Why are my leaves turning yellow?

What happens if my dog eats an African mask plant?

What is the humidity of African mask plants?

When was the African mask plant first used?

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Should I mist my African mask plant?

Misting your African Mask is important to maintain proper humidity and moisture. Using distilled water, mist the plant on a regular basis.

How do I keep my African mask alive?

African mask plants will thrive in high light, but not direct sun. Too much sunlight will cause leaf damage and burning, so it's best to provide diffused or indirect sources. They can tolerate medium levels, but in low light they'll suffer slow growth and small leaves.

How often should you mist Alocasia?

once a weekMist both sides of the leaves once a week in summer and twice in winter; browning leaf-tips are a big sign that the surrounding air moisture is too low. Moderate to high humidity levels are required, ideally greater than 50% humidity.

Do African mask plants like to be root bound?

Your African mask plant prefers a tight fit in its pot, so don't repot too often. Humidity is second on the list of necessities for your new houseplant. Alocasia thrives in a moist environment and needs plenty of water during active growth.

How do you water African masks?

African Masks like their soil to be consistently moist, but they do not like to sit in water. It's best to water your Alocasia from the bottom in the morning and let it soak up what it needs. Make sure to empty its drip tray after an hour or two. Fertilizer is your friend during the growing season.

When should I fertilize my African mask?

Fertilizer: Feed your alocasia with a diluted balanced fertilizer every month during the growing season. The African mask plant can be an especially heavy feeder during the spring and summer, but over-fertilizing it can cause its foliage to burn.

How do you know if Alocasia needs water?

RIGHT: Brown spotting or holes in the leaves can signal that the plant isn't receiving enough water. The drooping foliage and dry soil are what confirms this Alocasia Polly needs more water.

How do you know if Alocasia is thirsty?

How Do You Know If an Alocasia Is Thirsty? The leaves of your alocasia will start to droop when it needs water. In more severe cases, the leaves will begin to wilt and turn brown. Also, if the soil is dry, it's time for a drink.

What does Overwatered Alocasia look like?

Overwatering. If you overwater your Alocasia, it's possible that it will develop root rot or a fungal infection. Watch for brown or black spots developing on the leaves and monitor the soil for moisture. The soil should be damp, but not saturated with water, for optimal health.

Do Alocasia need big pots?

This family of plants is notoriously happy to be in very cramped pots. You will rarely need to upgrade the pot size, and should only do so during late Spring and early Summer so that the plant has time to adjust before Winter kicks in. Most Alocasias will grow huge even in a small pot.

How do you make Alocasia leaves bigger?

If you want your plant to push out new leaves actively and produce the large leaves it is known for, then make sure the alocasia is in a spot where it can receive plenty of bright indirect light. The plant will survive but not grow as quickly when placed in an area with lower light levels.

Why is my African mask leaves turning yellow?

African Mask Plants don't grow very well in low light areas and will start to produce yellow leaves if they aren't getting enough light. Try and move your plant to a spot with more natural light (making sure it's indirect) and your plant should start to produce healthier green growth.

How do you preserve a face mask?

Keep single-use face masks in a cool, dry place. Make sure they're out of direct sunlight and away from sources of heat. For instance, face masks are best stored in a drawer far away from the shower or from the area where you blow-dry your hair.

Why are the leaves on my African mask turning brown?

If the leaves on your African Mask Plant have turned light brown, dry and crispy, then you may not be watering your plant enough. Although African Mask plants don't like sitting in puddles of water, they do like some moisture in the soil. Consistent underwatering will cause them to develop brown leaves.

Why is my African mask drooping?

If yours begin to droop, it can be a sign of the plant having too little light, too much or too little water in the soil, or not enough nutrients. The plant will right itself over time but you also can stake the stems while it recovers.

How do you store your mask?

If your cloth mask is wet or dirty, put it in a sealed plastic bag until you can wash it. This will keep it from getting moldy. If your cloth mask is dry and clean, you can store it in a breathable bag (like a paper or mesh fabric bag) to keep it clean between uses in the same day.

What humidity level is needed for African mask plants?

Lack of humidity makes this beauty tricky to grow. Other plants native to the sub-tropics/tropics do fine in our drier home environments. A moderate to high level of humidity is key to African Mask Plant care. Sometimes the humidity levels in Tucson are 12%. The average houseplant enjoys a level of around 60%.

What is the genus of Polly?

The genus is most likely Alocasia x amazonica but the cultivar could be “Polly”. This is a smaller growing plant which was developed for the houseplant trade as most of the other Alocasias get large. You may also see it called “Kris Plant”. Confusing, I know. Regardless of which one I actually have, the care is the same.

Why are my African mask plants yellow?

If your African Mask Plant has yellow leaves, it’s most likely due to overwatering or underwatering. You can cut those leaves off.

What is the humidity in Tucson?

Sometimes the humidity levels in Tucson are 12%. The average houseplant enjoys a level of around 60%. Here’s what I do to increase the humidity factor:

How much organic compost should I use for a worm plant?

I add in a handful or 2 of organic compost when planting because this plant likes a rich mix. I top dress with a 1/4″ layer of worm compost with a 1″ layer of compost over that.

How big does an African mask plant get?

The African Mask Plant & other Alocasias can reach 4-6′. If I do have the cultivar Polly, then it’ll max out around 2′.

How often should I feed worms?

Besides my worm compost/compost routine in the spring, I feed this plant 5-6 times a year in spring, summer & early fall.

What is an African mask plant?

The African mask plant is easily one of the most stunning plants out there with its glossy, dark green arrowhead leaves and contrasting silver veins. But in addition to its beauty, the African mask plant also has a reputation for being quite a finicky houseplant, flaunting foliage that’s prone to becoming crispy and turning yellow. If you’re adding one to your collection, it’s helpful to understand this plant’s requirements to better your chances of keeping it alive. Ahead, we’ll break down everything that you need to know about the African mask plant so you can give it the best care possible!

Do African mask plants need light?

Light: African mask plants naturally grow beneath trees in nature, so direct sunlight will burn their leaves. That said, they thrive with bright, dappled light — they’ll tolerate medium light but might grow slower and develop smaller leaves. To help your alocasia absorb light better, occasionally wipe dust buildup from the foliage.

Are Alocasia ‘Polly’ Plants Toxic?

Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’ is poisonous for cats and dogs. The ASPCA says that “Elephant’s Ear” plants can cause oral irritation and pain if dogs or cats ingest any of the plant matter. Other signs of Alocasia ‘Polly’ poisoning are drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

How to repot an Alocasia plant?

To repot an Alocasia plant, remove the plant from its container. Remove all excess dirt from the roots. Half-fill a new pot with an appropriate potting mix. Place the roots in the pot so that the Alocasia amazonica plant is growing at the same height as before. Fill the remaining space with soil and water thoroughly.

What is the name of the plant that produces spathe flowers?

Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’ produces spathe flowers similar to peace lilies or calla lilies. The African Mask plant’s flowers have a flowering spadix that looks like a long spike. A spathe or colorful leaf-like bract surrounds this flowering spike.

How to keep Alocasia amazonica plants healthy?

Increase humidity by misting the leaves with filtered tap water at least twice a week. Warm, humid conditions indoors are perfect for fast, healthy Alocasia plant growth.

What is the name of the plant with spreading rhizome roots?

The Alocasia ‘Polly’ has spreading rhizome roots that make the plant easy to propagate. Common names for the Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’ include African Mask plant, Elephant Ears, and Kris plant. These names all refer to the characteristics of the triangular leaves. For example, the Alocasia leaves look like the shape of an elephant’s ears ...

How to grow alocasia polly?

Alocasia ‘Polly’ grows best in bright indirect light in a loose, fertile potting mix with excellent drainage. Water the African Mask plant when the top 1” (2.5 cm) of soil is dry and mist the large leaves to increase humidity. Keep temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C) and fertilize every month during the growing season.

What is a polly plant?

Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’ is also called the African Mask plant and Elephant Ears. Alocasia ‘Polly’ is a compact cultivar of the Alocasia amazonica tropical plant. It’s thought that Alocasia ‘Polly’ is a hybrid of two species— Alocasia watsoniana and Alocasia sanderiana.

What is the name of the African mask plant?

Printer Friendly Version. Image by ubonwanu. If you’re an indoor plant enthusiast looking for a unique addition to your collection of houseplants, then Alocasia may be the ideal plant for you. Also known as the African mask or Kris plant, Alocasia doesn’t come from Africa at all. It gets its name from its resemblance to ...

What is a Kris plant?

Clean lines and crisp, defined color makes the Kris plant ( Alocasia sanderiana) an excellent stand-alone specimen, especially when complementary to modern design. When mixed with a plant grouping, an African mask plant can turn a group of commonplace houseplants into an exotic, tropical display.

What is the color of the Alocasia berries?

The flowers are similar to jack-in-the-pulpit with a green and white spathe that produces orange-red berries. They are not significant and rarely occur in an Alocasia indoor planting.

How many species of Kris plants are there?

There are over 50 species of the Kris plant and Alocasia hybrids around, making it difficult to identify the exact genetic history of the plants typically sold in catalogs and stores. Grown for its striking foliage, the African mask plant is not an easy-care houseplant.

How long are the leaves of a jack in the pulpit?

The leaves grow long and pointed from rhizomatous clumps and reach an average of 18 inches (45.5 cm.) in length. They are a deep, dark green and some are so dark they almost appear black. Their shiny length is accented by silvery-white veining and deeply scalloped edges outlined by the same striking white. The flowers are similar to jack-in-the-pulpit with a green and white spathe that produces orange-red berries. They are not significant and rarely occur in an Alocasia indoor planting.

How hot does it have to be for African mask plants to grow?

Fortunately, average household temperatures are sufficient for African mask plants, although they prefer it a bit warmer, about 85 F. (29 C.) in summer.

Is Alocasia toxic to pets?

There is one more important note that should be mentioned when referencing the houseplant Alocasia in all its forms. They are toxic and should be kept out of the reach of small children and pets.

How to repotte a plant?

Hold the plant in the container gently at the base of the stems to keep it straight and level while filling the container. Pour the rest of the potting mix into the container around the corm and roots. Set the newly repotted plant in the tub or outside in a shady location. Pour the room-temperature water over the potting mix until it runs out of the bottom of the container. Move the plant back into its space indoors after the excess water finishes draining.

How to keep a plant in a container?

Hold the plant in the container gently at the base of the stems to keep it straight and level while filling the container. Pour the rest of the potting mix into the container around the corm and roots. Set the newly repotted plant in the tub or outside in a shady location. Pour the room-temperature water over the potting mix until it runs out of the bottom of the container. Move the plant back into its space indoors after the excess water finishes draining.

How to get rid of a plant that is rhizome?

Tip the plant and container on its side. Grasp the plant gently at the base of the stems and pull it out of the container. Work the old potting mix off the roots and corm or rhizome carefully by hand. Clean all of the old potting mix out of the container if it is being reused.

What is the best mix for bromeliads?

Use a potting mix designed for bromeliads or ferns. It should contain bark, peat, soil and perlite or sharp sand. Purchase the ingredients separately at the local garden center and mix them together yourself, if preferred. Use 40 percent bark/charcoal orchid mix, 20 percent peat, 10 percent perlite and 30 percent packaged sterilized soil.

How big do sage plants grow?

The plants grow to between 2 and 4 feet tall with leaves that are 2 feet long by 1 foot wide. Repot these plants when the roots fill the container or when the potting mix breaks down, becomes soggy and no longer drains quickly.

What is an African mask?

Alocasia amazonica is a hybrid plant commonly known as African mask, jewel Alocasia, Alocasia alligator and Alocasia poly. Many people also call it an elephant’s ear plant, which is accurate. Its dark green leaves are arrow-shaped with pronounced pale green to silvery-white veining.

How to repot African mask plants?

Use the same container or a new container of the same size if you are only replacing the potting mix. Fill a gallon jug with water one or two days before repotting the African mask plant to allow the chlorine to dissipate. Keep the water at room temperature.

Why do African mask plants need to be cleaned?

Not only does cleaning the leaves improve the aesthetics, but removing dust from the leaves also ensures that the plant is able to absorb light and photosynthesize properly. As you may have noticed, a layer of dust tends to accumulate on plant leaves over time. This layer of dust blocks sunlight and reduces the plant’s ability to photosynthesize.

Is African Mask Plant Toxic?

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), African Mask Plant is toxic to cats and dogs. Chewing or consuming this plant can cause vomiting, pain and swelling in the lips or mouth, and excessive drooling. In rare cases, swelling may occur in the upper respiratory tract which makes it difficult for the animal to breathe. If you believe that your pet has ingested part of your African Mask Plant (or any other plant), call your veterinarian or local pet clinic immediately.

What is an elephant's ear?

Houseplants. Alocasia x amazonica, which is commonly known as Kris Plant, African Mask Plant, or Elephant’s Ear, is a houseplant that is known for its striking leaves. The leaves have a triangular shape and contain light-colored veins. Interestingly, the leaves also have a waxy cuticle which gives ...

Why are my leaves turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves are typically a sign of overwatering or underwatering. If you see the leaves of your plant starting to yellow, back off on the watering unless you are fairly certain that you have not been watering very frequently.

What happens if my dog eats an African mask plant?

In rare cases, swelling may occur in the upper respiratory tract which makes it difficult for the animal to breathe. If you believe that your pet has ingested part of your African Mask Plant (or any other plant), call your veterinarian or local pet clinic immediately.

What is the humidity of African mask plants?

Ideally, this plant should be in an environment with a relative humidity of around 60%.

When was the African mask plant first used?

History Of African Mask Plant Cultivation. The term Alocasia x amazonica first appeared in a Florida State Horticultural Society publication in 1953. This hybrid was developed by Salvadore Mauro, who owned Amazon Nursery in Miami, Florida, in the 1950s.