How to Overwinter Taro
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Taro flourishes in USDA zones 8-10, allowing for outdoor cultivation throughout the year.
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Begin preparing Taro plants for winter dormancy prior to the initial frost, typically in mid-autumn.
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Taro corms, when stored correctly, can remain viable for replanting for as long as half a year.
The Importance of Overwintering Taro
Why is Overwintering Taro Important?
Ensuring your Taro plants survive the cold season is vital if you reside in an area with freezing winters. Originating from tropical Asia, Taro thrives in warm conditions and needs specific attention to endure low temperatures. Overwintering Taro helps preserve its valuable corms for spring replanting, guaranteeing a continuous and robust growth cycle annually.
Preparing Your Taro for Winter Storage
When to Start the Process
Timing is critical for successful overwintering. Initiate the process in mid-autumn before the initial frost arrives. This timing is essential to prevent Taro corms from exposure to freezing temperatures, which can lead to decay or death.
Necessary Tools and Supplies
Gathering the appropriate tools and materials will enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the overwintering process. You will need: Pruning shears A garden spade or trowel Clean cloths or paper towels Fungicidal powder Suitable storage containers such as cardboard boxes or mesh bags Perlite or peat moss for storage
Cleaning the Plant and Corms
Carefully excavate the Taro corms using a garden spade or trowel to avoid damage. Remove any clinging soil by gently rinsing them with water. Pat the corms dry with clean cloths or paper towels, then allow them to air dry completely for one to two days. Apply a fungicidal powder to the corms to prevent mold and rot during storage.
Taro Overwintering Techniques
Indoor Corm Storage
Store Taro corms in a cool, dark, and dry location, such as a basement or garage. Place the corms in cardboard boxes or mesh bags filled with perlite or peat moss. This environment will simulate a natural habitat, slowing their metabolism without killing them. Maintain the temperature between 7-13°C (45-55°F). Periodically check the corms for any signs of mold or decay.
Keeping Taro in a Greenhouse
For those with access to a greenhouse, this can be an excellent environment for overwintering Taro. Ensure the greenhouse maintains a stable temperature between 10-15°C (50-59°F) and provide minimal wateringâonly enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out. This method helps keep the plant in a semi-dormant state while protecting it from the elements.
Utilizing a Hoop House
A hoop house is another effective method for overwintering Taro. This option is particularly useful if you have a larger number of plants. Construct the hoop house over the Taro plants and cover it with thick plastic sheeting to create a microclimate. Add an extra layer of mulch around the base of the plants to insulate the soil and prevent it from freezing.
Reactivating Taro in Spring
Inspecting Corms for Viability
As winter concludes and temperatures begin to rise, it's time to revive your Taro corms. Start by examining each corm for viability. Look for firm, healthy corms that are free from mold, rot, or excessive dryness. Discard any showing signs of disease or damage.
Preparing the Soil
Prepare the soil for replanting your Taro corms. Taro prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH level between 5.5-6.5. Incorporate plenty of organic matter like compost to enhance the soil's fertility. Ensure the planting area receives ample sunlight, ideally 6-8 hours daily.
Replanting and Care Tips
Replant the corms when the soil temperature consistently stays above 15°C (59°F). Place the corms about 10 cm (4 inches) deep and space them 60-90 cm (24-36 inches) apart. Water the newly planted corms thoroughly, and continue to water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month to support their growth.
