Home Garden

How to Dry Out Malanga for Planting

Malanga (Xanthosoma spp.) is often grown for its edible tubers that are actually corms. Because of its large green leaves, malanga can be confused with the elephant ear plant. It is also similar to the dasheen plant and is planted in a similar manner. To help malangas grow and thrive, dry or cure the tubers prior to planting them in spring.

Things You'll Need

  • Knife
  • Tongs or gloves
  • Metalaxyl
  • Tray
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Pull apart the smaller tubers growing on the sides of the main large tuber. Plant both these small and main tubers. Cut up the main tuber into smaller pieces to grow more plants. Note that the larger the pieces, the larger the plant will grow.

    • 2

      Dip the tubers and seed pieces in a benzenoid fungicide with the active ingredient metalaxyl. Dilute with water per manufacturer directions. Use a pair of tongs or wear gloves during this step.

    • 3

      Lay out the seed pieces and tubers on a tray. Air dry for one to two hours in an airy location. Flip them and dry for another hour. Plant the dried and cured malanga seed pieces and tubers within two weeks.