How to Grow and Care for Taro

Plant Care

Taro is a tropical plant, so they grow best in humid, hot temperatures and rich, wet soil. Although able to handle partial shade, it thrives in full sun and will grow to its full height and produce its maximum yield. Taro prefers rich, well-drained soil that can hold moisture, but not standing water.

In cooler climates, however, Taro usually grows as an annual or it is cultivated in pots to be taken indoors for the winter. Watch the moisture in the soil and water regularly for full growth. Taro also benefits from periodic feeding, especially during the growing season.

Light

Taro enjoys warmth and flourish in partial to full sun 6-8 hours a day. But it can also take some partial shade, particularly in warmer areas where midday sun can be too much. If grown indoors or in a pot, the plant should be placed where it will receive plenty of natural light, or with grow lights. Don't plant in the shade, which produces long, leggy plants and fewer edible tubers.

Soil

Taro grows best in rich, wet, well draining soil with plenty of organic material. The best type of soil is loamy or silty with a pH from slightly acidic to neutral (5.5-7.0). Taro does not like dry or packed soil nor is it fond of soil that doesn’t drain well since it can cause root rot. Ensure your planting area has good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Add plenty of compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to ensure vigorous plant growth and a good crop of tubers.

Watering

Taro loves moist conditions, so it's essential to keep the soil consistently wet, but not waterlogged.Make sure to water regularly, particularly in hot or dry conditions. If planting in a pot, make sure the pot can drain so that the roots aren't sitting in water. 

Try to keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season. As the tubers mature and harvest time approaches, you can slightly reduce watering to prevent overwatering and allow the roots to concentrate their starch.

Pruning

Pruning Taro isn’t strictly necessary, but it can help the plant focus its energy and grow more efficiently. Here is how to prune right:

• Remove away dead and damaged leaves: It helps keep the plant looking clean and healthy and encourages better plant growth.
• Cut back excess foliage: Trim the largest leaves to avoid overcrowding, so sunlight can reach the lower leaves and tubers.
• Promote branching: If you wish, you can cut the plant back to make it more bushy. Taro is a plant that can grow tall, but regular trimming can help control its growth, prevent it from becoming top-heavy.

Clean cuts: Always use clean, sharp tools to prevent infections.

Propagating

Taro is typically propagated through tuber division or offsets. You can also use stem cuttings, but it is less common. Here's how to propagate:

Tuber Division:

• When harvesting Taro, separate the small offsets or “pups” from the main tuber.
• Ensure each piece has at least one healthy eye or growth node.
• Plant the divisions in well prepared soil at the same depth as they were originally growing.
• Water frequently and keep wet in the early stages.

Offsets:

• Take young shoots or suckers from the parent plant.
• Plant them in moist soil, and they should root and grow in a few weeks.

Growing in Pots

Growing Taro in containers is a great way to control its environment, especially in cooler climates:

• Container size: Plant in a large enough pot (at least 18–24 inches deep & wide) for its extensive root system.
• Soil: Plant in well-draining potting soil and supplement with organic matter for fertility.
• Sunlight: The best results come you place the pot in a sunny spot, ideally for receiving 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.
• Watering: Taro is water loving and requires a lot of moisture, so water frequently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Drainage: Make sure your container has good drainage, as overwatering can cause root rot.

Overwintering

Frost-sensitive, Taro will not tolerate freezing temperatures. If you live in a cooler zone:

• Harvest the tubers before the first frost.
• Tubers should be stored in a cool, dry location for the winter. Avoid refrigerating them.
• If they are in pots bring them indoors or to a protected area to keep the plant from freezing damage.
• Alternatively, you can mulch the roots heavily in the ground to offer some protection from frost.

Blooming

Taro is cultivated mainly for its edible tubers and attractive foliage. Although it responds to flowering, there are not the main feature of the plant. The flowers are insignificant and small and are easily overlooked with the showy foliage. But they may attract pollinators such as bees, which can be helpful in cross-pollination. If you’re growing Taro for the tuber, not the flower, concentrate on keeping the plant’s health and its foliage rather than anticipating profuse blooms.

Common Issues

The taro plant is fairly resistant, though it does have a few common problems to look out for:

• Root rot → A result of poor drainage or overwatering. Good drainage is important, and make sure you do not overwater.
• Pests:

Aphids: Common on the underside of leaves. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil for control.

Snails and slugs: Use organic slug bait or remove by hand.

Yellowing leaves: It may be the result of over- or under-watering, lacking nutrients. Ensure proper watering practices and consider fertilizing.

Summary

Taro is a beautiful and adaptable plant that can thrive in the right conditions. Whether you grow it for its bold, dramatic foliage or for its edible tubers, it is a rewarding crop. If looked after properly, with the proper humidity and light, the Taro will be more than just a beautiful ornamental, but also a delicious and nutritious part of your diet. So, whether you are planting it in your garden or in a pot, Taro is fun to grow.