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.
The HydroCare branched version of Dracaena Janet Craig has lush, shiny, wide green leaves with wavy edges.
The branched version has a tall, dense bushy style. Janet Craig looks great as an elegant floor specimen and is well known for its ability to purify the surrounding air. It does well in a shady spot making it perfect for urban and office environments.
HydroCare - Dracaena Janet Craig Care & Info Guide
Horty Hints
Feeling the Chill! These warm climate plants are susceptible to temperatures of 12°C or lower. Leaves will curl and can dry-up and die.
Manage and Maintain! Inconsistent levels of water, temperature and light can damage some leaves beyond repair. Thankfully these can be torn in half and pulled out.
Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove accumulated dust. Cut back by removing the top of the plant if it grows too tall. Don't use leaf shine on these plants.
Light
Dracaena Janet Craig is one of the more shade tolerant varieties of Dracaena but prefers medium to bright indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight.
Watering
Keep an eye on the water meter. Water when the meter has been on minimum for 7 to 10 days. For more information, check out our HydroCare set up guide.
Temperature
Janet Craig does best in average household temperatures: between 16-24°C, but can cope with as low as 12°C for short periods.
Humidity
Dracaena are hardy houseplants and will do well in normal room humidity, however they do prefer higher humidity and will benefit from occasional misting.
Feed
Add a Hydroculture liquid feed every 2 to 3 waterings during the spring and summer months.
Height & Growth Rate
Fragrans Janet Craig is a slow-growing plant which typically reaches an ultimate height of 1 to 2 metres.Please note: each plant is unique so available heights are approximate and the plant you receive may vary by ±10%.
Toxicity
The sap of this Dracaena is toxic to animals. It is not considered poisonous to humans but should not be ingested.
Air Purifying
This plant filters airborne toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde and is part of our clean air plant collection.
Origin
Like most Dracaena, the fragrans 'Janet Craig' variety originates from tropical Africa.Please note: images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.