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Can You Grow Taro (Arbi / Colocasia) in New York?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b

Grow indoors

Start in a large pot and keep consistently moist — move outdoors in summer for best growth.

Plant zones

7a–11b

New York last frost

early April

New York first frost

late October

Days to harvest

150–200 days

When to plant Taro (Arbi / Colocasia)s in New York

Start indoors

Feb 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

Aug 29 – Oct 18

Dates are approximate, based on New York's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Taro (Arbi / Colocasia)

Taro (arbi) is a staple starchy corm used across Indian, Caribbean, Hawaiian, and African cuisines. The large decorative leaves make it a striking ornamental too. Grow from corms — never eat raw (the raw plant contains calcium oxalate crystals that must be destroyed by cooking).

Start corms indoors 8 weeks before last frost. Loves warmth, humidity, and consistently moist soil. Can grow in water or very wet soil. Harvest corms in fall when leaves yellow. Always cook thoroughly before eating. Can overwinter indoors as a houseplant.

Full taro (arbi / colocasia) growing guide →

Gardening in New York

New York ranges from Zone 6b in New York City to Zone 4a in the Adirondacks. Western New York near Lake Erie has a unique microclimate excellent for Concord grapes.