Overwintering guide
How to overwinter colocasia illustris black runner
Winter watering
Water rarely, and only in dry spells — winter wet is a bigger risk than winter cold. Make sure containers drain freely.
The mistake that kills colocasia illustris black runner in winter
Leaving colocasia illustris black runner in a pot standing in a saucer of water. Waterlogged compost freezes solid around the roots and kills plants that would have survived the cold perfectly well.
More colocasia illustris black runner care
- Overwintering elephant ear — the species this cultivar belongs to
- Full colocasia illustris black runner care guide
- Colocasia Illustris Black Runner temperature range
- How often to water colocasia illustris black runner
- How to prune colocasia illustris black runner
- Common colocasia illustris black runner problems & fixes
- Best plant identifier apps — tested and ranked
Overwintering colocasia illustris black runner — FAQ
Does colocasia illustris black runner need to come indoors for winter?
Colocasia Illustris Black Runner is hardy to roughly USDA zone 8 — winter lows around -12°C. That means it survives outside in mild areas, but wants shelter in a hard winter. Colocasia Illustris Black Runner can stay outside over winter in most areas, but appreciates some protection in a cold snap. Mulch generously over the root zone, move containers against a sheltered wall (pots freeze far harder than open ground), and have horticultural fleece ready for the worst nights. The roots are what you are protecting — top growth can be sacrificed and regrown.
When should I move colocasia illustris black runner for winter?
Mulch and move pots into shelter in late autumn, before the first hard frosts.
How often should I water colocasia illustris black runner in winter?
Water rarely, and only in dry spells — winter wet is a bigger risk than winter cold. Make sure containers drain freely.
What kills colocasia illustris black runner over winter?
Leaving colocasia illustris black runner in a pot standing in a saucer of water. Waterlogged compost freezes solid around the roots and kills plants that would have survived the cold perfectly well.