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Alocasia gageana, commonly known as California Giant Elephant Ear or Alocasia California, is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid environments. While it is primarily grown as a houseplant, it can be enjoyed outdoors in the UK during the summer months when temperatures are suitable. Here are some care instructions for growing Alocasia gageana California outdoors in the UK:
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Temperature: Alocasia gageana prefers warm temperatures between 18-25°C (64-77°F). In the UK, it is best to place the plant outdoors during the summer months when temperatures are consistently above 15°C (59°F). Avoid exposing the plant to chilly drafts or temperatures below 10°C (50°F) as it can cause damage.
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Sunlight: Provide your Alocasia gageana with bright, indirect sunlight when growing outdoors. Place it in a location that receives morning or evening sun but is shaded during the intense midday sun. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
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Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the summer, you may need to water your Alocasia gageana more frequently due to increased evaporation. Check the soil moisture regularly by inserting your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, as this can cause root rot.
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Humidity: Alocasia gageana thrives in high humidity. In the UK, where the air tends to be drier, you can increase humidity by misting the plant's leaves with water or placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. This creates a humid microclimate around the plant.
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Fertilization: Feed your Alocasia gageana with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength during the growing season (spring and summer) every two to four weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period in winter.
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Pruning: Remove any yellowed or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's health and appearance. Trim off any dead or brown tips with clean, sharp scissors.
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Overwintering: Alocasia gageana is not frost-tolerant, so when temperatures start dropping below 15°C (59°F) in autumn, it's time to bring your plant indoors. Place it in a well-lit area away from cold drafts and provide slightly reduced watering during the dormant period.
