Detailed Guide to Autumn Care and Hydroponic Cultivation of Alocasia (Dumb Cane)
Alocasia, everyone should be fairly familiar with it, because it is a very common plant in our lives. Many people who grow Alocasia do not really understand it; in fact, Alocasia can be grown not only in soil but also hydroponically, and it is very easy to grow. Below, let's learn about the care and management methods for Alocasia together!
Autumn Care Methods for Alocasia
1. Temperature. Alocasia can only grow well in an environment no lower than 18°C. If the temperature drops below 18°C, Alocasia will enter a dormant state and stop growing. Alocasia is not very cold-resistant, so it should be moved into a greenhouse in mid-October. In summer, it needs to be kept in shade, with frequent water spraying to cool down and maintain moisture.
2. Fertilizing. Hydroponic Alocasia likes fertilizer, and it should be fertilized every month. Alocasia grows rapidly in summer and has a high demand for nutrients. Every 15 to 20 days, alternately apply a liquid fertilizer such as decomposed soybean cake water and a compound fertilizer (it prefers nitrogen fertilizer); otherwise, the lower part of the stem is prone to becoming bare, with yellow leaves or smaller leaves. Applying a 2% ferrous sulfate solution about once every 20 days can make Alocasia leaves larger, thicker, and greener. When Alocasia has grown to a size suitable for home placement, spray the whole plant with a 2% paclobutrazol solution; the plant will not only be compact and delicate, but its leaves will also be thick and fleshy, with higher ornamental value.
3. Sunlight. Alocasia likes shade, so do not let direct sunlight hit it. If Alocasia becomes “wilted”, it is mainly due to insufficient fertilizing, so pay attention to topdressing. Alocasia likes a warm, humid environment with slight shade, but during the flowering period it needs ample sunlight; otherwise, the spathe will be tinged with green, affecting quality. It must receive 3-5 hours of light per day, otherwise the leaf stalks will elongate and reduce its ornamental value.
Hydroponic Cultivation Methods for Alocasia
1. When converting a soil-grown plant to a hydroponic plant, wash the roots carefully and try not to damage the tubers and root system; at the same time, cut off rotten roots and roots that have already aged. If the tuber has no roots, first place it in a shaded spot to air-dry for 2-3 days, and after the wound has dried, immerse it in water; after 2-3 days, new roots will be visible.
2. Note that in the early stage of hydroponics, the water should be changed once every 2-3 days, and the water depth should be enough to submerge 2/3 of the root system. After a week, new roots will grow. After 3 weeks, once the hydroponic plant has adapted to the hydroponic environment, switch to nutrient solution culture. After that, change the nutrient solution about once a month.
3. Because the stem tissue of Alocasia is relatively loose, poor water quality can easily cause contamination leading to root rot and stem rot. Therefore, keep the water in the container clean, and also clean the mucus on the tubers and roots when changing the water or nutrient solution, and cut off rotten roots.
4. In hot summer, increase the frequency of water changes, and keep air humidity no lower than 60%. Spray water frequently to create a relatively cool and humid environment for it. In winter, to keep its leaves dark green, generally spray warm water once a week.
5. The water level only needs to cover 2/3 of the root system. Frequently clean the inner wall of the container to prevent the growth of blue-green algae.
6. The sap in the stems and leaves of Alocasia is toxic, so care should be taken during maintenance and management: it must not be put into the mouth, and contact with the skin will cause itching and redness and swelling. Rinse promptly with water, or wear plastic gloves when handling it to be safer.
Are the Flowers of Alocasia Toxic?
The flowers of Alocasia are toxic. At the same time, the white sap in the stems of Alocasia is toxic, and the water dripping from it is also toxic. Accidental contact with or ingestion of its sap can cause poisoning symptoms, but the floral fragrance of Alocasia is non-toxic. Skin contact with the sap of Alocasia can cause itching or strong irritation, and eye contact with the sap can cause severe conjunctivitis or even blindness. Accidentally eating the stems and leaves or sap can cause discomfort in the throat and mouth, with symptoms such as nausea and a burning pain in the stomach; in severe cases, it may even cause suffocation and lead to death from cardiac paralysis.
Can Alocasia Be Placed Indoors?
It can be placed indoors. Alocasia has the effect of purifying the air and absorbing dust, and is an excellent indoor shade-tolerant foliage plant. Alocasia is an indoor foliage plant. Foliage plants have relatively large leaves, so their transpiration is also relatively strong; with large transpiration, more water is released into the air. Dry weather leaves everything in a state of water shortage, so in this season, keeping a pot of Alocasia at home means you can breathe moist air when you get home. However, its sap is toxic, so prevent it from dripping into the eyes or being taken by mistake, which could cause throat redness and swelling or eye inflammation.
Now many people like to place green plants in their rooms. First, it can decorate the room; second, a touch of vibrant green in the room makes people feel very good. If you have time, growing an Alocasia in your room can also purify the air!