Black and White Bat Lilies (Tacca chantrieri and Tacca nivea) side by side in bloom

How to Care for Bat Lilies

by Top Tropicals Plant Expert Tatiana Anderson

🌞 Light

• Bright, filtered light. Morning sun or dappled shade is perfect.
• Avoid direct midday sun outdoors — it can scorch the leaves.
• Indoors, place near a bright window with sheer curtains or use a grow light.

🌡️ Temperature

• Warm and stable, ideally 70-85 F during the day.
• Protect from cold drafts or sudden chills.
• Ideally, do not let temperature drop below 45 F, although Taccas can tolerate short period of upper 30's.

💧 Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.
• Water when the top inch feels barely dry.
• Use lukewarm water.
• Avoid letting the pot sit in water.

💨 Humidity

• High humidity (60-80%) is key.
• Mist leaves often, use a humidity tray, or keep near a humidifier.
• In greenhouses or bathrooms with a skylight, it thrives naturally.

🌱 Soil

• Use rich, loose, well-draining mix
• Combine bark, peat, and perlite for ideal airflow around the roots.
• Best mix for growing tropical Tacca in pots - soilless potting mix Abundance . It provides perfect drainage and has a texture similar to a jungle rainforest media.

🍽️ Feeding

• During growth season (Spring through Fall), feed with Green Magic controlled release fertilizer every 6 months. For even better results, you may apply liquid fertilizer Sunshine Boosters Rubusta.
• Stop feeding dry fertilizer in cooler months when growth slows. Liquid Sunshine Boosters are safe to use with every watering, year around.

🏡 Indoor Growing

• Great for bright bathrooms, sunrooms, or any warm, humid corner.
• Rotate pot occasionally for even growth.
• Keep away from heating vents and AC drafts.

🌴 Outdoor Growing (in warm climates)

• Partial shade or filtered light under trees.
• Excellent in large containers that can be brought inside for winter.
• Shelter from heavy rain and wind.

Sunshine: "So… it’s a diva?"
Smokey: "Exactly. But take care of it - and it rewards you with wings!"
Smokey and Sunshine: "Happy Halloween!"

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🌟Repotting FAQ

Q: How big should the new pot be?

A: Only a few inches larger than the old one. Oversized pots hold too much moisture and may cause root rot.

Q: Why are plastic pots better than ceramic?

A: Plastic pots are lighter, easier to handle, and you can cut them if a root-bound plant is stuck. Ceramic pots are heavy, breakable, and often lack drainage.

Q: How do I safely remove a plant from its pot?

A: Turn the pot upside down and let gravity help. Never pull by the stems or leaves. If stuck, lay the pot on its side and squeeze or tap it. Cut the pot if needed.

Q: Should I remove old soil from the roots?

A: No. Roots have tiny hairs that absorb water and nutrients. Shaking off soil damages them and sets the plant back.

Q: Why must the plant sit at the same soil level?

A: Planting too deep suffocates the stem, and planting too high exposes roots. Keeping the same level protects the root crown.

Q: How soon should I water again after repotting?

A: Water thoroughly right after repotting, then wait until the top inch of soil dries before watering again.

🌱 Done! Your plant now has room to grow stronger before fall.

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Mulberry Care and Growing Tips

Mulberries are tough, low-maintenance fruit trees that adapt to many conditions.

• Climate: Hardy from USDA zone 5 to 10.
• Soil: Grow well in almost any soil; prefer good drainage.
• Watering: Regular watering during dry spells; drought tolerant once etablished.
• Growth: 3–5 feet per year, producing fruit early.
• Pruning: Annual pruning controls size and improves branching.
• Pot culture: Dwarf types thrive in containers, staying 6–7 feet tall. Use a large pot, water consistently, and prune lightly. Use Abundance potting mix for best results.
• Fertilizer: For reliable production, fertilizer regularly. Apply Sunshine C-Cibus liquid booster with every watering, or Green Magic controlled release fertilizer every 5-6 months.

❓ Mulberry FAQ

How soon will a mulberry fruit?

One to two years, sometimes the very first season.

What climates are suitable?

USDA zones 5–10, from -20F winters to hot summers.

How tall do they get?

Standard trees 20–30 ft; dwarfs 6–10 ft in pots.

Do I need more than one tree?

No, they are self-pollinating.

What do they taste like?

Sweet and juicy, like a blend of blackberry and raspberry.

How long is the harvest?

Everbearing types ripen gradually from summer into fall.

Do birds eat them?

Yes, but trees are so productive there’s plenty to share.

Are they messy?

Dark-fruited varieties can stain; white mulberries do not.

Can I grow them in containers?

Yes, dwarf types (Dwarf Everbearing, Issai) fruit well in pots.

How long do they live?

Many live for decades; Illinois Everbearing can endure for generations.

What are the health benefits?

Mulberries are low-glycemic, support healthy blood sugar, improve heart health, and are rich in antioxidants.

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