The Alocasia Polly is a stunning tropical plant known for its beautifully patterned, dark green and velvety leaves. This plant is gaining popularity as an indoor houseplant due to its visually appealing foliage and relatively easy care requirements. Learning how to properly grow and care for an Alocasia Polly will help it thrive indoors and keep its foliage healthy and vibrant for years to come.

Choosing the Right Potting Mix

Choosing the proper potting soil is key to growing a healthy Alocasia Polly. Here are some tips for selecting the ideal potting mix:

Use a well-draining potting mix – The soil needs to dry out somewhat between waterings to prevent soggy conditions that can lead to root rot. A mix containing perlite, orchid bark, and coconut coir will provide drainage.
Potting mixes for aroids or tropical plants – These are formulated for plants that prefer moist but not wet soil. They contain the right balance of peat and perlite.
Create a customized aroid mix – Mix 2 parts peat moss or coco coir, 2 parts good quality potting soil, 1 part perlite or orchid bark. Adding charcoal can also assist drainage.
Perform a drainage test before using any potting mix. Add water to a pot filled with the mix. It should seep through and not become waterlogged.

Choosing the Right Pot or Container

Picking an appropriate pot or planter is also vital for Alocasia Polly care:

Plastic, glazed or ceramic pots – Provide the most drainage. Unglazed terracotta can dry out too quickly.
Pot with drainage holes – This is essential to prevent soggy soil. Pick a pot with several holes along the bottom.
Size up pot as plant grows – Start with a 6 inch pot and gradually move up to a 10-12 inch pot once larger. The pot should be 2 inches wider than the plant.
Shallow wide pots are preferable – The roots grow horizontally so a wide pot will accommodate growth better than a deep narrow pot.

Providing the Right Light Conditions

The Alocasia Polly requires bright, indirect light to replicate its tropical jungle environment:

East or west facing windows – Provide the right amount of light. Some direct morning or late afternoon sun is tolerated.
North facing rooms – These are too dim, plant may stretch toward light. Supplement with a grow light.
South facing light – Too intense direct light will scorch leaves. Filter the light with curtains.
Outdoor partial shade – A covered patio or under trees works during warm months. Bring inside if temperature drops below 60°F (15°C).
Grow lights – LED full spectrum grow lights can provide sufficient brightness on darker days or in rooms without windows.

Maintaining Ideal Temperatures

Warm temperatures are needed for an Alocasia Polly to thrive. Keep the plant in an environment with suitable temperatures:

65-80°F (18-27°C) – Ideal temperature range. Growth slows below 65°F (18°C).
Above 55°F (13°C) – Minimum temperature. Colder than this can harm the plant.
Keep away from cold drafts – Position away from drafty windows, doors, and air conditioning vents.
Use a space heater – Increase surrounding warmth if room temperature drops too low.
Move to warmer room in winter – Keep in the brightest and warmest room in colder months.

Providing Adequate Humidity

The Alocasia Polly thrives in humid conditions, similar to its native tropical habitat. Use these techniques to increase moisture in the air:

Pebble tray – Place pebbles and water in a tray under the pot. The evaporating water increases local humidity.
Misting – Spray plant leaves frequently with a spray bottle of water.
Humidifier – An electric or ultrasonic unit raises humidity in the whole room.
Group plants together – Having several plants in one space contributes to more humidity.
Kitchen or bathroom – These naturally more humid rooms are ideal spots.

Watering Properly

Establish a thorough watering routine to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy:

Water when top 1-2 inches of soil become dry – Check by inserting finger into top of soil to gauge moisture.
Water until it drains from the bottom – This ensures water reaches the entire root zone.
Empty overflow saucer – Do not allow plant to sit in excess water in the saucer.
Avoid watering on a schedule – Base watering on soil dryness instead of a calendar day.
Reduce watering in winter – Growth slows during this time so the soil can be allowed to become slightly drier.

Providing Sufficient Fertilizer

Feeding with a diluted fertilizer provides vital nutrients for an actively growing Alocasia:

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer – Look for a 20-20-20 or 10-10-10 NPK formula to provide even nutrition.
Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during growing season – This is spring through summer. Stop feeding by late fall.
Always dilute to half-strength – Too much fertilizer can burn the root system.
Avoid getting fertilizer on leaves – This can cause leaf burn. Just pour into the soil.
Reduce feeding in winter – During dormancy, the plant needs less fertilizing. Every 6-8 weeks is sufficient.

Supporting Optimal Growth

Proper care and growing conditions will keep the Alocasia Polly growing vigorously:

Stake or trellis tall stems – For top-heavy plants, prevent tipping over by securing stems.
Pinch off spent leaves – Removing dead or dying leaves encourages new growth.
Divide overcrowded plants – Once potbound, dividing the rhizomes rejuvenates growth.
Rotate plant occasionally – Rotate every few weeks so all sides get equal light exposure.
Wipe leaves – Use a damp cloth to remove dust buildup blocking light reception.

Avoiding and Treating Common Problems

With attentive care, Alocasia Polly issues can be minimized or corrected:

Drooping or Wilting

Cause – Underwatering or dry air.
Solution – Water thoroughly until it runs from the drainage holes. Increase humidity around the plant.

Leaf Edges Turning Brown

Cause – Low humidity.
Solution – Mist frequently or use a pebble tray to boost moisture levels.

Leaves Turning Yellow

Cause – Overwatering or saturated soil.
Solution – Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Water less frequently.

Curled Leaves

Cause – Excess light.
Solution – Filter or reduce direct sun exposure.

Stunted Growth

Cause – Pot too small, temperature too low, or insufficient nutrients.
Solution – Repot in a larger container, move to a warmer area, and fertilize regularly.

FAQ About Growing Alocasia Polly

Many people have similar questions when learning how to care for an Alocasia Polly. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

How much light does an Alocasia Polly need?

The Alocasia Polly thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Some early morning or late afternoon sun is tolerated but harsh direct light should be avoided. If the plant starts getting leggy or leaves curl, increase light exposure.

What is the ideal temperature range for Alocasia Polly?

Daytime temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and above 60°F (15°C) at night are ideal. Temperatures lower than 55°F (13°C) can damage the plant.

How often should you water an Alocasia Polly?

Check soil moisture by inserting a finger into the top few inches of soil. Water thoroughly once the top inch becomes dry. Take care not to overwater and saturate the soil. Allow excess water to drain out.

What kind of fertilizer is best for an Alocasia Polly?

Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluting it to half strength. Look for a 20-20-20 NPK formula. Fertilize every 2-4 weeks from spring through late summer.

How do you increase humidity for an Alocasia Polly?

Group plants together, use a humidifier, place the pot on a pebble tray, or mist the leaves frequently to maintain 50-60% humidity. Higher humidity prevents leaf edges from browning.

Why are the leaves on my Alocasia Polly turning yellow?

Overwatering that leads to saturated, soggy soil is the most common cause of yellowing leaves. Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings.

How can I revive a drooping Alocasia Polly?

If leaves start drooping, the plant is likely not getting enough water. Thoroughly soak the soil until water drains freely from the bottom. Increase humidity as well.

Conclusion

With its stunning foliage and tropical vibe, the Alocasia Polly makes an excellent houseplant for bright rooms. Provide this plant with ample humidity, moist soil, warm temperatures, and proper light conditions. Water thoroughly when the topsoil becomes dry and fertilize regularly during the growing season. Address any issues with lighting, watering, or humidity that arise. With the right care, the Alocasia Polly will thrive and add beautiful, exotic appeal to any indoor space.

How to Grow and Care for Alocasia Polly