HydroCare plants are planted in hydrogranules instead of using soil.
Hydrogranules are manufactured from clay pellets that are baked at high temperatures to make them expand, a process a bit like making popcorn.
The open structure of the hydrogranules allows water and nutrients to be stored and released, creating the optimum conditions for indoor plants to thrive as well as simplifying maintenance requirements.
HydroCare plants have a lot of benefits over soil plants:
Moisture Levels: The open structure of the hydrogranules creates optimum moisture levels around the roots of the plant. Water stored in hydrogranules below the roots will be gently drawn up through capillary action for the roots to absorb. No more dried out roots or root rot.
Watering: A water meter on the side of the grow pot indicates the amount of water left in the hydrogranule reservoir below the roots. When it reaches the minimum level wait for 1-2 weeks then simply top it back up to the optimum level. The plant will pull water from the hydrogranules according to its needs so there is no risk of over or under watering and watering is less frequent.
Root Health: The open structure of our pH neutral hydrogranules allows air to circulate around the roots keeping them healthy and because they do not compact over time there is no need to top up.
HydroCare plants are adapted to these conditions and develop a smaller more fleshy root system making the plant more hardy and in a smaller grow pot meaning you have a wider choice of decorative planter styles. The requirement to repot as the plant grows is also significantly reduced.
Pest Control: Hydrogranules are an inert medium that is less susceptible to pests, fungi and bacteria which means healthier plants with less risk of disease.
When you buy a HydroCare plant, you need a few other bits and pieces to assemble the plant in your chosen planter or plant pot. Think of getting a HydroCare plant as a solution that needs to be assembled rather than just a plant.
We have a simple step by step video guide to assembling the HydroCare plant in a plant pot but essentially you need 5 things for hydro heaven:
1. The HydroCare plant in its hydroculture grow pot.
2. A water meter to slot into the side of the hydroculture grow pot.
3. A waterproof plastic liner for your decorative pot. Each HydroCare plant has an associated hydro kit that includes a waterproof liner to fit the hydroculture grow pot of the plant and a size tip to help you choose a decorative pot that will accommodate the specified waterproof pot liner for the plant.
4. Extra hydrogranules to fill around the grow pot and make a nice finish on top.
5. Hydroculture plant food, specifically formulated for use with hydrogranules.
Fully deserving of its common name, Cast Iron Plant, the aspidistra is extremely resilient and has a wonderful ability to thrive on very little care. The fact that it also copes with pollution gives rise to its alternative name Bar-Room Plant.
The aspidistra is an elegant foliage plant with tough, leathery leaves, perfect for a shady corner where other plants may fail.
A firm favourite with the Victorians, the Aspidistra elatior is an excellent choice for the modern home. Their graceful outlines will add a cool, sophisticated tone to any room. Smaller plants are ideal in a pot to compliment the surrounding décor. Larger plants make a bold, confident statement when stood on the floor.
Aspidistra elatior Care & Info Guide
Horty Hints
The Cast Iron Plant prefers dryer roots, so don't let it sit in a puddle for too long!
Cast iron plants are susceptible to spider mites and scale! HydroCare plants are far less susceptible, but if you notice white dotting on the leaves, there could be a pest problem. See our pests guide for help.
Wash the leaves occasionally to remove accumulated dust.
Light
Aspidistra elatior will thrive in a range of lighting conditions. Bright, indirect light to a dark, gloomy corner. Avoid sitting in full sunlight however. Very tolerant of shade.
Watering
Allow an extended "dry period" for Aspidistra. Water when the meter has been on minimum for 7 to 10 days, allowing the roots to dry out completely. For more info, visit our HydroCare set up guide.
Temperature
The Cast Iron Plant will thrive in average household warmth and can tolerate temperatures as low as 7-10°C, but avoid keeping the plant in anything colder.
Humidity
Aspidistra does not need a humid environment, but may thrive better in steamier locations such as the bathroom or kitchen. Misting occasionally may benefit the plant but is not required.
Feed
Add a Hydroculture liquid feed every other watering during the spring and summer months.
Height & Growth Rate
Aspidistra is slow growing and will usually rise to a height of around 1 metre.Please note: each plant is unique so available heights are approximate and the plant you receive may vary by ±10%.
Toxicity
The Cast Iron Plant is considered non-toxic. It is safe to keep around small children and animals.
Air Purifying
This plant will remove unwanted chemicals from the air, such as formaldehyde.
Origin
Aspidistra elatior is native to South East Asia, specifically Japan and Taiwan.Please note: images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.