Taro
Colocasia esculenta
About Taro
Taro is a tropical root crop that is the staple food for millions of people across the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. The starchy corm is boiled, steamed, or made into poi (Hawaiian) or laplap (Vanuatu). Taro leaves (called callaloo in the Caribbean) are also eaten as a nutritious vegetable. The crop grows well in waterlogged conditions where few other food plants can thrive, making it invaluable for wetland agriculture. In the Pacific Islands, taro has deep cultural significance and is central to feasting, trade, and identity. Taro leaf blight has caused devastating crop losses in the Pacific.
Growing Conditions
Partial shade to full sun — tolerates more shade than most food crops
Very high water requirement — taro can grow in standing water (paddy taro) or irrigated upland conditions.
Heavy clay, muck, or alluvial soils that retain moisture. pH 5.5-7.0.
Optimal 25-30°C. Does not tolerate cold — growth stops below 15°C.
High humidity (80%+) preferred.
Long season — 6-12 months depending on variety and growing conditions.
Step-by-Step Growing Tips
Plant corm tops or suckers (huli) with 2-3 cm of corm attached
Space at 90 × 60 cm for dryland taro, 60 × 60 cm for paddy taro
Maintain 5-10 cm standing water for paddy taro throughout the growing season
Apply balanced NPK fertilizer — potassium is especially important for corm development
Remove infected leaves promptly to manage taro leaf blight
Harvest when lower leaves yellow and die back naturally — corm is mature
Disease Risks to Watch
All diseases →Companion Planting
✅ Good Companions
Growing Zones
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant Taro?
Long season — 6-12 months depending on variety and growing conditions.
What soil does Taro need?
Heavy clay, muck, or alluvial soils that retain moisture. pH 5.5-7.0.
How much water does Taro need?
Very high water requirement — taro can grow in standing water (paddy taro) or irrigated upland conditions.
What are the most common diseases affecting Taro?
The most common diseases are: taro leaf blight. Monitor regularly and practice crop rotation.
What plants grow well with Taro?
Good companions include: banana. Avoid planting near no specific plants.
Growing Taro? Protect It.
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