Water Culture Methods and Care Tips for Alocasia (Dishui Guanyin)
When a breeze blows past, Alocasia carries the floral meaning of good fortune arriving. Alocasia loves high temperatures and high humidity; a dry environment is unfavorable for its growth. Its growing temperature is 20°C-30°C, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 8°C, and the indoor temperature in winter must not fall below 5°C.
Selection of Plants
(1) Directly take a potted plant and wash it; Alocasia with many branches on the stem and an attractive plant shape is especially the best material for water culture.
(2) Cut the stem from the base of the plant at about 5 cm above the soil surface, and carry out stem cuttings to encourage rooting.
(3) Take the small leaf-bearing Alocasia plantlets that sprout around the tuber.
(4) After fruiting in autumn, collect the orange-red seeds and sow them immediately after harvesting to form small plants.
Matching with Containers
Small and medium-sized plants go with small and medium glass containers of various shapes.
Wider and larger plants go with low, wide semicircular or fishbowl-shaped glass containers of various kinds.
Tall and slender plants go with deep, straight cylindrical glass bottles.
Care and Management
(1) The stem and root tissues of Alocasia are relatively loose and have high requirements for water quality. Be careful to keep the water clear and hygienic, otherwise the stem and roots are prone to rot.
(2) 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 moist environment for it. In winter, to keep its leaves dark green, generally spray warm water once a week.
(3) The water level only needs to cover 2/3 of the root system. Clean the inner wall of the container frequently to prevent the growth of moss.
(4) The sap in the stems and leaves of Alocasia is toxic. Pay attention during care and management: it must not be ingested, 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.
Indoor Application
Alocasia easily makes people immerse themselves in a warm dream. Many people like its large, emerald-green leaves and enjoy watching water droplets roll on the leaves. Therefore, after water culture in a large container, it is suitable for placement in a corner of a hall, living room, or leisure bar. Small or mini water-cultured Alocasia can accent a desk, computer desk, washbasin counter, and so on.