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.
Ditch the drought! Make sure to keep your Alocasia moist (not wet) to keep it happy and healthy.
Alocasia have a dormant period where leaves will fade and die so do not be alarmed when this happens. During this period, the plants will require less water, so simply moisten the soil from time to time.
Time to get steamy! If your Alocasia is looking a little wilted, pop it in the bathroom to soak up those raised humidity levels.
Thrives in bright, well-lit conditions, however direct sunlight should be avoided as it will scorch the leaves. Alocasia do not benefit from shade, and will begin to suffer if light is too low.
The Alocasia's roots should be kept moist with room temperature de-chlorinated water. Water when the water meter has been on minimum for 7 to 10 days. Be wary not to overwater.
Alocasia Cucullata needs to be kept warm. Normal room temperature is ideal: between 18-22°C. Avoid cold draughts.
Requires an environment with above average humidity. Mist frequently for best results. If it needs a boost, pop it near the shower or in the kitchen for a while.
Add a Hydroculture liquid feed every other watering during the spring and summer months.
Alocasia are a fast growing plants if conditions are right and their needs are met. The Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear will usually reach between 45cm and 90cm tall.
Please note: each plant is unique so available heights are approximate and the plant you receive may vary by ±10%
These plants are harmful if eaten and are a skin and eye irritant. Keep out of reach of children and animals.
The Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear is a native of South East Asia.
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.
On Demand Nutrition: Adding a HydroCare liquid feed to your watering regime allows the plant to draw in nutrients at its own pace. No more scorched leaves or stunted growth from over-fertilisation.
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.
"Look deep into nature and then you will understand everything better."
~ Albert Einstein ~
We believe in the power of plants to lift the spirit, calm the mind and clean the air.