Grower Today

Category: Soils & Plant Nutrients

  • Get To Know Some Of The Best Worms For Vegetable Garden

    Get To Know Some Of The Best Worms For Vegetable Garden

    Many types of worms are great soil amenders so adding them to our gardens is very beneficial. But which of these various types of worms is one of the best for our vegetable gardens? Best worms for vegetable garden will be discussed in this article.

    If you have a farm that you grow vegetables on, then you should know that come certain worms can help to boost your soil quality. Below the surface of the soil inhabits an ecosystem with life that include worms. So, these worms provide some health benefits to our garden soil.

    Below the surface of your soil, these beneficial worms are adding great nutrients and even aerating your soil. But what types of worms are great for our vegetable gardens? Let’s find out.

    Best Worms For Vegetable Gardens

    So, what are the best worms for vegetable gardens? Below we have listed some of the best worms for your vegetable gardens:

    1.    Earthworms

    When it comes to the best worms for vegetable gardens, we can put earthworms as one of the best. Usually, earthworms are naturally in our soil and they tend to be down below the ground. We may not even know that these worms are down below our soil.

    Earthworms help the soil by fertilizing the soil with their excrete and they also help aerate our soil. Once you’ve confirmed the presence of earthworms in your soil, that’s an indication that your soil has good organic matter.

    Best Worms For Vegetable Gardens - Earthworms

    Additionally, worms help digest any organic matter that you add to your soil system. They do this by assisting in the decomposition of the organic matter added by their feeding activities.

    2.    Nightcrawlers (Lumbricus Terrestris)

    Nightcrawler worms are also great to be used for vegetable gardens. These types of worms are just like earthworms because they also help breakdown organic matter thereby making these nutrients available to your plants. Nightcrawler worms also help aerate the soil by burrowing into the soil.

    3.    Red Wigglers (Eisebia Foetida) – Best Worms For Vegetable Garden

    Red wiggler is another good worm that can be added to your vegetable garden. However, it is best to add red wiggler worms to raised bed as this will help keep them contained.

    Unlike other worms species such as earthworm and nightcrawler that tend to burrow into the ground, red wigglers don’t burrow. Rather, these worms often remain in the upper layer of the topsoil, meaning they are surface dwellers.  They can tolerate higher temperatures.

    Red wigglers breathe via their skin and they need to remain moist. So, ensure you don’t let these worms dry out. You can help with moisture by adding a layer of mulch so the soil can remain moist. Do this once you’ve released red wigglers into your vegetable garden.

    These worms are pretty efficient in decomposing scraps from your vegetables in your compost pile or worm bin and their droppings. Their urine is very useful for your plants and your garden.

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    Should Red Worms Be Introduced Into Our Garden?

    Earthworms are natural dwellers that you can find sitting down below your soil. However, red wigglers may not be found naturally in your garden. You may need to introduce red wigglers from outside source.

    But introducing red wiggler worms into your garden may not be the best option. Red wigglers are active critters that tend to move so they can move away from your soil area.

    If you want to get good results, you will need to keep these worms contained. Setting them up in a raised bed with a huge amount of mulch and keeping them in the vermicompost bin is a good plan. Alternatively, if you have a manure pile, then you can use them on the pile.

    Is It Possible For Earthworms And Red Worms To Live Together?

    The fact is that red worm and earthworm lifestyle is totally different. Hence, it’s hard for them to compete with resources.

    Red wigglers don’t burrow into the soil as earthworms do. So, introducing red wigglers in the topmost part of your soil can probably get them eaten by birds. They can even move away from your garden or garden bed.

    So, because of the differences in how earthworms and red worms live, not all situations or environments are suitable for them.

    Earthworms, for instance, tend to burrow deep into the soil and they like a cool environment but they can’t tolerate heat. However, red worms are surface dwellers that can tolerate heat.

    Also, earthworms like a huge compost bin so that they can have the chance to burrow deep down. For red worms, on the other hand, you should use them with vermicompost bin or use them on a manure pile.

    So, the ideal thing is to allow earthworm remain in their base down below as they assist in processing the waste and aerating the soil. Then red worms can remain on the top soil as they also help process waste.

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    What Are The Benefits Of Adding Worms To Garden?

    Worms such as earthworms, nightcrawlers, and the like can be of great help to our garden. Usually, we may not even be aware they are doing their good work.

    • Beneficial worms help digest all organic matter that enters our soil system. The worm’s activities help degrade organic matters.
    • Worms help by making all nutrients available to the plants. They do this by pre-digesting organic matter.
    • Worms such as earthworms and nightcrawlers dig deeper into the soil thereby aerating the soil.
    What Are The Benefits Of Adding Worms To Garden

    Conclusion On Best Worms For Vegetable Garden

    Earthworms, nightcrawlers, red worms, and the likes can be very helpful to our gardens, especially vegetable gardens. Best worms for vegetable gardens have been discussed in this post. So, you can help boost the production of your vegetable garden by introducing these beneficial worms when necessary.

    FAQ’s

    What kind of worms are best for vegetable garden?

    The kind of worms that are great for your vegetable garden includes earthworms, nightcrawler, and red worms. Earthworms and nightcrawlers dwell deep down in the soil. Then red worms usually prefer the surface of the soil.

    Are worms good for gardens?

    Yes, some species of worms are great for our gardens. Worms such as earthworms help improve the fertilization of the soil as well as aerate the soil.

    Should I put worms in my garden?

    Although beneficial worms such as earthworms are naturally present in our soil, you should only add them to your garden when it is necessary.

  • Can You Grow A Bedroom Snake Plant? 

    Can You Grow A Bedroom Snake Plant? 

    Is it possible to grow a bedroom snake plant meaning it will always be in your bedroom and not any other part of your home?

    Snake plants are easy to grow both indoors and outdoors.  When grown indoors, they can be kept in any part of the house – living room, bedroom patio, bathroom, etc.

    About Snake Plant

    The snake plant is one of the easiest houseplants to grow because of its versatility.  It does well in any type of lighting and it only needs to be watered when the soil drys out.  

    When grown outdoors, it does well in bright indirect light.  It can also be planted in containers.  It’s very easy to maintain and will grow quickly.

    It also makes a good gift for anyone who loves snake plants. The leaves are generally dark green with green-banded leaves and with a yellow border. They are a great size for growing indoors as they can grow anywhere from six inches to eight feet.

    The common or garden snake plant is also known as mother-in-law’s tongue because of the shape of its leaves.  It is native to tropical Western Africa. 

    It has become one of the most popular houseplants because of its easy care and fast growth.  Snake plants can be grown in a sunny location in any type of lighting.  It does best in sandy well-drained soil.

    Care And Maintenance For A Bedroom Snake Plant

    Check Out What Is The Bleeding Heart Flower Meaning?

    Bedroom Snake Plant Growing Conditions

    Snake plants growing in the bedroom require proper growing conditions that include:

    A cool and humid room

    Snake plants grow best in temperatures between 65 to 85 degrees Farenheit. The ideal humidity level is between 30 to 50 percent. A humidifier can help to maintain moisture in very dry conditions. 

    Soil

    Snake plants can grow in a loose, well-drained potting mix and they go well with sandy soils. The proper growing environment for your bedroom snake plant is a large, well-lit room with air circulation.

    Light

    Snake plants do well in bright, indirect light indoors. They can grow in many different lighting conditions including full sun, partial sun, and shade. However, be careful placing them directly under a window because the heat may damage the plant.

    Watering

    Watering can be a problem for snake plants. Too much water can cause problems for snake plants. They only need to be watered when the soil is dried out. 

    Pruning

    Snake plants are hardy plants and will need to be pruned now and then.  Simply prune the lower old leaves that are dead and leave the newer ones, which means they don’t need to be pruned. Pruning can cause damage if not properly done.

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    Care And Maintenance For A Bedroom Snake Plant

    It is important to keep your snake plant healthy and happy by following these maintenance tips:

    Tip 1: Remove dead leaves as they appear

    Dead leaves stagnate the growth of your plant so remove them as often as they appear.

    Tip 2: Water your snake plant occasionally

    Water your snake plant when the soil is dry. They do not need to be watered frequently.

    Tip 3: Keep your snake plant in bright light

    Your snake plant will grow best if it has bright, indirect light.

    Tip 4: Repot your snake plant every two years

    It is recommended that your snake plant be repotted every two years as the soil may dry out and the roots may become too cramped for the plant to grow.

    Tip 5: Keep the leaves clean and free from debris

    Clean your snake plant regularly with a soft brush or a damp cloth. Remove any dead leaves or debris that accumulate.

    Tip 6: Fertilize your snake plant

    Though snake plants don’t need to be fertilized, it can be beneficial. Fertilize with a mild cactus fertilizer during the growing season and do not fertilize in winter. 

    Tip 7: Check for insects

    If you see any signs of disease or insect infestation, consult your local gardening expert.

    Tip 8: Protect from frost

    Keep your snake plant indoors and away from cold drafts during winter. 

    Read more about An Indepth Study On Alocasia Sumo

    Final Words – Bedroom Snake Plant

    The snake plant is one of the easiest to grow and more so in your bedroom. It does not need a lot of attention and will reward you with its beautiful leaves.

    It is a great plant to grow indoors and it is beginner friendly since it does not need much maintenance. The plant can also be easily propagated through seeds or cuttings, which makes it an affordable option for beginning gardeners.

    FAQs

    Can snake plant be kept in the bedroom?

    Yes, snake plants can grow in the bedroom as long as you provide enough light.

    What is the best way to propagate snake plants?

    Snake plants can be propagated by dividing the roots or by leaf cuttings.

    Do snake plants help you sleep?

    Snake plants are a good source of oxygen which can help you sleep better.

    Do plants steal your oxygen at night?

    Snake plants do not steal your oxygen at night but they do produce oxygen. You can sleep as long as you want with the snake plant. They produce oxygen that helps you sleep.

    Where should you place a snake plant?

    Snake plant can be placed both indoors and outdoors and continue thriving. Indoors it does best in an area with bright indirect light.

  • Is a Mushroom a Producer or What Can It Be Called? 

    Is a Mushroom a Producer or What Can It Be Called? 

    Is a mushroom a producer or a decomposer?  What class would you classify mushrooms especially if you want to start growing them?

    Have you ever grown mushrooms? Mushrooms are fungi and they have a very unique appearance. 

    Fungi can be single-celled or very complex multicellular organisms that often grow on dead organic matter, such as wood, plant material, and decaying matter.  There are millions of species of fungus, including many edible ones.

    Is a Mushroom a Producer?

    Fungi can be saprobic, parasitic, or mutualistic. Saprobes eat organic material and are decomposers. Decomposers play an essential part in the survival of the ecosystem.

    Mushrooms are decomposers and they only eat dead organisms. They break down the nutrients in the dead
    organisms they consume, then return them to the food web. Mushrooms will eat dead producers or
    consumers. 

    Defining a producer and decomposer:

    Is a mushroom a producer? A producer is an organism that produces food for itself and other organisms. Producers, which are plants, use energy and simple inorganic molecules to create organic compounds.

    In the case of mushrooms, they are decomposers. Mushrooms break down dead plants and animals and then release simple inorganic molecules back into the environment. 

    The decomposers are those organisms that eat dead organic matter, such as insects, to get its energy. For example, earthworms eat the soil and convert the organic matter to new soil for plants to grow in.  So, the earthworm is a decomposer and not a producer.

    Growing Mushrooms

    Growing mushrooms is not for the fainthearted.  If you have never grown mushrooms before, it is important to start with compost and a tray. The more you grow, the more you will learn about the various species.

    For beginners, we recommend starting with the most common species of mushroom: the shiitake. The shiitake is easy to grow, and it’s a good beginner’s mushroom because they are quite forgiving.

    We also recommend growing oyster mushrooms. Oyster mushrooms are delicious when they are young, but they can grow to be very large. If you like oyster mushrooms, you will be pleased with the variety of sizes and flavors available in your garden.

    For growing mushrooms you will need:

    • For best results, use a 14×16-inch tray about six inches deep.
    • Mushroom compost material.
    • A spade or garden fork.
    • A mushroom spawn bag. The most common mushroom spawn bags are made from polypropylene. The advantage of using a mushroom spawn bag is that it keeps your mushrooms from getting waterlogged.
    • Heating pad.
    • Potting soil.
    • Spray bottle.

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    Step-by-step directions:

    Step 1. Preparing the mushroom tray

    Use a 14×16-inch tray about six inches deep. The tray should resemble seed flats. Fill your trays with mushroom compost material and then sprinkle spawn on top. 

    Step 2. Growing the mushrooms

    For the first three weeks, use a heating pad to keep the soil temperature at 70 degrees Farenheit. Once white, rootlike growths called mycelium appear lower the temperature to 55 to 60 degrees Farenheit. Cover the mycelium with about an inch of potting soil.

    Be sure to always keep your soil moist during the growing period. Also, be sure to keep your growing tray out of direct sunlight. 

    Step 3. Harvesting the mushrooms

    After three to four weeks, the mushrooms will be ready to harvest. You know that they are ready to harvest when the caps open fully and separate from the stems. 

    Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the mushroom at the stem, do not pull it out. Wrap the mushrooms in paper towels then place them in open plastic bags or paper bags and keep them in the fridge. You can now use the mushrooms in recipes or freeze them for later use.

    Are all Autotrophs producers

    In Conclusion – Is A Mushroom A Producer?

    So is a mushroom a producer or a decomposer?  As we have seen in the above article, a mushroom is a decomposer and not a producer. 

    Read more about Best Oyster Mushroom Substrate.

    FAQs

    What is a mushroom classified as?

    A mushroom is a fungus that forms fruiting bodies and spores. Fruiting bodies are the reproductive structures of the mushroom.

    The most common form is a spore-producing structure called a cap. Caps can be single or multiple and can be attached to the substrate or free-standing.

    A spore-producing structure called a stalk grows from the base of the cap. Mushroom stalks can also be free-standing or attached to the substrate.

    Does mushroom belong to Basidiomycetes?

    Yes. Mushrooms are basidiomycetes which are a diverse and abundant group of fungi. They comprise of around 1/3 of all known fungal species.

    Why is a mushroom not a plant?

    Plants are the dominant life forms on Earth. Plants have a root system, photosynthetic leaves, and reproductive structures. Mushrooms are not plants. They do not have roots, they do not produce chlorophyll, and they do not photosynthesize. Mushrooms are fungi that form fruiting bodies and spores.

    Are all Autotrophs producers?

    An autotroph is a type of organism that can produce its own food using inorganic substances. So, autotrphos are producers.

  • The Ideal Blueberry Soil PH Requirement

    The Ideal Blueberry Soil PH Requirement

    It is necessary to maintain an ideal pH for the blueberry soil so the plant can flourish. Blueberry soil pH can range from 4.2 to 5.5 so this implies that they need acidic soil to thrive and yield fruits.

    The pH of the soil is one of the most important things to put in place when planting blueberries. For you to properly plan your blueberry planting, you need to know the status of your soil and do the appropriate amendments necessary for your plant to flourish.

    The information we will be provided in this article will outline more about blueberry soil requirements.

    Blueberry Soil PH: The Ideal PH Requirement

    So, the correct pH level you should provide for the soil for growing your blueberry is between 4.2 to 5.5 and this shows that acidic soil is the best pH for the plant.

    This pH range for blueberry is pretty unique given the fact that most vegetables and fruit plants thrive well in a soil pH range between 6.5 to 7.5.

    But when it comes to blueberry plants, if you want to follow the usual pH range for most fruits and vegetables (which is around 6.5 to 7.5), the plant’s growth can slow down, show yellowish leaves, and even produce only a few fruits or no fruit at all. This is why you need to test your soil and lower the pH when necessary.

    Blueberry Soil PH: The Ideal PH Requirement

    To reduce the pH of your soil, you can simply amend it by adding sulfur to the soil. This sulfur can be in form of elemental sulfur, sphagnum peat moss, or you can simply use a widely available sulfur amendment gotten from your local garden stores.

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    How You Can Test The Soil To Determine Soil PH

    When you plan to grow blueberry, it is very important to determine the status of your soil pH. Once you’re able to determine the soil pH, you can know the right amendments to do. The appropriate pH status required to grow blueberry ranges from 4.2 to 5.5

    You can determine the soil pH by simply obtaining some soil samples in the area of the plant site you will be planting your blueberries and submit this sample to a lab.

    Now, once you’ve identified the status of your soil, you can now decide on the appropriate soil amendments for your soil. If the soil is high in pH, this means you should amend the soil by lowering the pH and if the soil level pH is low, you can leave it but make sure the level is between 4 to 5 pH levels.

    Read more about Growing The Pink Spider Lily From Seed

    Way Of Amending Soil PH To Suit Blueberry

    So, below are some great ways you can amend the soil pH:

    1.    Sulfur – Blueberry Soil PH

    Sulfur should be applied to the planting site. But if you would be making use of sulfur to amend your soil to plant blueberry, it is recommended to amend your soil pH the fall before you plant. It is suggested you do this because it can take several months for the pH to be amended after sulfur application.

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    2.    Sphagnum Peat Moss – Blueberry Soil PH

    Sphagnum peat moss is also great to be used to amend the soil. This is particularly if your soil has not been amended yet and you wish to plant your blueberries this spring. So, the addition of an acidic growing medium such as sphagnum peat moss can be added to the planting site to help amend the soil.

    This method will even be more ideal if the originally the soil pH is around 5.5 to 7.0. So, just add about 4 to 6 inches of sphagnum peat moss to the upper layer of about 6 to 8 inches of the soil.

    We recommend you go further by amending the whole planting site for your blueberries. This is because the roots of blueberries are inclined to expand and outwards. Hence, it is better to amend a soil area of about 2 to 3 feet wide just to ensure the roots of the blueberries plant have access to acidic soil.

    3.    Fertilize With An Acidic Fertilizer – Blueberry Soil PH

    Blueberry soil pH planting site can as well be amended using acidic fertilizer. Some of these acidic fertilizers include ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, or sulfur-coated urea.

    Guidelines For Planning Out A Blueberry Planting Site

    Let’s further look into some guidelines to put you through planning out a blueberry planting site:

    1. You should begin soil amendments by planning ahead because the soil can need several months to adjust once it has been amended. If possible, you can amend the soil in the fall before you plant
    2. At your planting site, you need to plant blueberries 5 feet apart. It may seem like this distance looks far, but the plant is capable of growing out and filling the space. Just make sure you don’t plant too close because it can create competition amongst the plants and it can even increase the chances of insect and disease damage.
    3. Make sure the blueberry variety you’re purchasing is from a reliable or reputable store.
    4. Preferably, don’t plant against a wall because the wall may generate extra heat that can cause damage to the leaves of the plant.
    5. You can expect 6 to 8 pounds of fruits each year for each plant and begin 3 to 4 years after planting.

    Final Note On Blueberry Soil PH

    Blueberry soil pH needs to be in the right range which is around 4.2 to 5.5 because this pH range will ensure blueberry plant thrives well and produce.

    Soil testing should be the first factor to consider when planning your garden site for your blueberry and once you’ve determined the pH level, just amend the soil accordingly to suit blueberry growth.

    FAQ’s

    How do I make my soil acidic for blueberries?

    You can make your soil acidic for blueberries planting by simply adding sulfur to your soil, amending it with sphagnum peat moss, or fertilize the soil using acidic fertilizer.

    Should you put lime on blueberry bushes?

    The addition of lime to soil usually neutralizes the soil pH to a pH range of around 6.0 to 7.0. However, blueberry needs an acidic soil of lower pH (which is between 4.2 to 5.5) to flourish. So, lime may not be so great in helping blueberry plant amend their soil to the right pH range.

    Can I put coffee grounds on my blueberry plants?

    You may decide to put coffee grounds on your blueberry plants because they are highly acidic. However, if your soil is already high in nitrogen and you apply coffee ground, it may stunt the growth of flowers and fruit production.

    How do you add sulfur to blueberries?

    Sulfur helps amend blueberry soil by lowering their pH, so if you want to reduce the pH range of sandy soil, you need to add ¾ pound of sulfur per 100 square feet of the garden planting site.

  • Tips When Growing The Pink Spider Lily From Seed

    Tips When Growing The Pink Spider Lily From Seed

    In this article, we will learn how to grow the pink spider lily and the perfect conditions to provide this plant so that it thrives.

    The Pink Spider Lily also known as the Resurrection lily or “surprise lily,”  is a popular plant among gardeners. It is a bulbous plant with large flowers. The flowers have an amazing fragrance and are bright pink.

    These flowers are also known for their longevity. They bloom just when many other blossoms are fading, adding a late-season pop of beautiful color. These flowers have unique trumpet-shaped blooms.

    This makes them very appealing to gardeners. They do not require a lot of space and are low maintenance. They require moderate water during the summer.

    How To Grow The Pink Spider Lily

    What does the pink spider lily symbolize

    Tip #1: Bulb germination

    Bulbs are usually the best way to start your Pink Spider Lily. This will ensure that you get a healthy plant with no problems. Plant the bulbs with 1/4 inch exposed above the soil. The soil should be organically rich and well-drained. 

    Plant the bulbs about six to nine inches apart. At maturity, they will grow to be 18 to 24 inches tall. In addition to planting in gardens, you can also grow them in pots.

    Tip #2: Sun and watering needs

    Your Pink Spider Lily should be planted in an area where it will get full sun to partial shade. They have moderate watering requirements, no more than one inch of water a week.

    Tip #3: Blooming

    The flowers will bloom from late summer to fall. They have a beautiful pink color with a very fragrant smell. The flowers will cluster atop tall stems.

    Tip #4: Feeding your pink spider lily:

    Pink Spider Lillies do not need fertilizer. Some people may choose to supplement the soil with organic fertilizer before planting, but it is not necessary in most cases.

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    Tip #5: Transplanting

    You can transplant your lilies the first thing in spring or fall when the flowers begin to die back. Be sure to move them to an area where they will get full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil.

    Use a trowel to carefully loosen the soil around the bulbs. Then, carefully slide the trowel underneath the bulbs and gently lift them from the soil. Separate the bulbs and remove any that are rotten.

    Carefully move the bulbs to their new location and plant them at the same depth they were before. The bulbs can be sensitive when they are moved so they make take some time before they begin growing again.

    Summary

    The Pink Spider Lily is one of the lilies that are commonly grown by gardeners.  They are easy to grow and bloom easily when provided with the right growing conditions. As you try to grow your own, have a happy time!

    FAQs

    What does the pink spider lily symbolize?

    The pink spider lily symbolizes the purity of a woman and the innocence of a child. The flower is associated with the goddess Diana, who was worshipped in ancient times as the patroness of women and children. The flower’s name comes from the Latin word for “spider,” which is associated with the goddess.

    Are pink spider lilies poisonous?

    Pink Spider Lilies are poisonous if eaten. Their poison severity is low and can cause abdominal pain, salivation, shivering, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

    Is spider lily an indoor plant?

    Yes, spider lily is both an indoor and outdoor plant. It benefits from full sun and should be placed in a sunny spot. However, it will still grow in semi-shade if given enough light.

    Do spider lilies spread?

    Spider lilies are perennial plants and do not spread. It is native toand Asia. It has an upright growth habit and grows to around 18-24 inches tall.

  • Detailed Information About Alocasia Azlanii

    Detailed Information About Alocasia Azlanii

    The Alocasia Azlanii is a beautiful, dark purple foliage that has darker edging and purple veins that make the leaves look like a stormy sky.

    Alocasia Azlanii is beautiful foliage that has dark purple leaves with darker purple veins. It makes a beautiful addition to any landscape and can be planted in a variety of locations. Alocasia Azlanii has a widespread and the foliage can get up to two feet tall.

    This plant is easy to grow, needs minimal care, and will tolerate drought.  You should grow it in full sun or partial shade. The Alocasia Azlanii will bloom in spring and fall continuously if it is not cut back after it blooms.

    If you are looking for a plant that has a good amount of foliage and flowers but does not require much maintenance this plant is a perfect choice.

    About the Aclocasia Azlanii

    The Alocasia Azlanii is a plant native to Brunei. It is a species of flowering plant that is a member of the family Araceae. The Azlanii is one of the 97 Alocasia species known around the world.

    Though rare, the plant makes a beautiful tropical houseplant. However, it is important to note that the plant is toxic to pets.

    What is the rarest Alocasia

    Description:

    This plant grows up to two feet tall. The plant grows into a mound shape with deep green to purple glossy leaves. The leaves are shaped like a fan and have a leathery texture. The edges of the leaves are serrated and are covered in fine hairs.

    Alocasia Azlanii Planting Requirements:

    Soil

    Alocasia Azlanii requires well-drained potting soil. It grows best in average to fertile, well-drained soils.

    The ideal soil temperature is about 65 to 75 degrees F. The plant does not tolerate frost. Alocasia Azlanii has been cultivated in gardens for centuries.

    Propagation

    Alocasia Azlanii can be propagated from seed or by division. Seeds germinate readily and should be sown at least two weeks before the last frost. Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in a sunny location and keeps moist until germination occurs. Cover lightly with a plastic bag to help create humidity.

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    Fertilize

    Provide additional fertilizer when the plants begin to grow vigorously. Keep plants evenly moist but do not let them get wet. Fertilize with a 10-10-10 fertilizer once every two weeks.

    Watering

    Water during dry spells, but avoid over-watering. Once the top two inches of soil are dry then it is time to water again.

    Dividing

    For best results, divide the plant in spring or fall. Divide the rhizomes in fall by planting each piece three to four inches deep in a pot or flat. Each piece should be three to four inches wide at the top of the root ball and at least two inches wide at the bottom.

    Repotting

    Repotting the alocasias every two to three years by digging up the plant, loosening the roots, and repotting into a new container using a sphagnum moss mix.

    Pests & diseases

    There are no pests or diseases associated with this plant.  Aphids and whiteflies may be a problem; spray with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil as needed.

    In Conclusion

    The Alocasia Azlanii is one of the most beautiful plants you can ever grow.  You will find it to be very easy and rewarding. I have been growing this plant for years, but have never had a problem with it.

    It has always done well and has even bloomed in my pots. This is the perfect plant to grow indoors or out. It does not get too big and is not too heavy.

    Alocasia Azlanii does not require complicated growing conditions to thrive. It’s one plant you can grow easily with easily available conditions. Use regular potting soil and some fertilizer to nourish the plant.

    A good consistent wearing schedule works best for this plant, watering once the top two inches of soil are dry.  As far as pests go, Alocasia Azlanii is generally fine, but may suffer from spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and aphids. If you are interested in growing this plant, why not give it a try?

    Read more about Jungle Velvet Calathea – Plant Care Tips.

    FAQs

    What is Alocasia Azlanii?

    Alocasia azlanii is a member of the araceae family, and is native to Brunei. It has deep green to purple waxy leaves that are oval-shaped.

    How big can Alocasia Azlanii grow?

    The Alocasia Azlanii can grow to be up to two feet tall. It can make a beautiful tropical houseplant.

    What is the rarest Alocasia?

    Alocasia azlanii is a rare plant in cultivation.

    Can you propagate Alocasia from leaves?

    No, this plant cannot be propagated from leaves but you can propagate it from stem cuttings or seeds. The temperature of the ideal growing environment for Alocasia azlanii is between 65 to 75 degrees F.

  • The Magnificent Red Spider Lily And All There Is To Know

    The Magnificent Red Spider Lily And All There Is To Know

    The red spider lily or the Lycoris radiate blooms in the late summer and early fall. As a carefree plant that grows easily, it is capable of growing in most parts of the country.

    Also known as the hurricane lily, it is a herbaceous perennial plant that has a wide variety of uses. It can be used as a groundcover or on borders.

    The red spider lily has a beautiful, distinct look. In this article, we will give you all the information you need to know about this plant.

    History Of The Red Spider Lily

    The red spider lily is native to Southeast Asia. In 1854, Captain William Roberts of the U.S. Navy acquired three red spider lily bulbs from Japan.  Though described to be “in such a dry condition that they did not show signs of life until the War between the States” they were eventually planted in America.

    Despite their conditions, the three bulbs survived and grew in their new home in North Carolina. They began spreading across the Southern United States before becoming popular nationwide.

    It is considered to be one of the most beautiful plants in the world. It is also one of the easiest plants to grow. The coral-red flowers have exceptionally long stamens which give the plant a unique look.

    Characteristics Of The Red Spider Lily

    The red spider lily has vibrant, coral-red flowers that have a slight golden sheen in the sunlight. The petals are delicate and curl inward and the stamens of the flower are long, wiry, and prominent.

    The red spider lily has a nice aroma that is not too overwhelming. This plant bloom depends on your location, blooming from late summer to early fall.  The flowers are large, red, and bloom for about two weeks.

    Propagation

    This plant is easy to propagate as it can be grown from bulbs. When planting bulbs, you need to make sure that you plant them in an area where there is enough light.

    The bulbs should be planted at a depth of about four to six inches and should be in a place where they will get full or partial sunlight. Water them well and keep them moist until they sprout.

    Growing

    The red spider lily grows from a bulb that can be planted in fall or early spring.  The bulbs of this plant are very easy to grow and need little care. They can grow in USDA zones 6-10. 

    Red spider lilies are very hardy and can handle most conditions. They should be planted in soil that is well draining and rich in organic matter.

    The soil should have moderate moisture so it will not dry out. During the growing season, they will need around one inch of water a week.

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    Maintenance

    The red spider lily has very little maintenance. You just need to water the plant about one inch of water a week and that is it. It does not need much fertilizer.

    It is best to feed high-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring, as this will provide the plant with the nutrients it needs for growth. A fertilizer that is high in potassium and phosphorus can be beneficial after bloom to help with root growth and hardiness.

    Soil

    The red spider lily likes well-draining soil that has good drainage. The soil should be rich in organic matter. Ideally, the soil should be slightly alkaline.

    Temperature

    The red spider lily does not like cold temperatures. If you are growing them in zones six or seven, it is best to add mulch to protect the leaves and exposed bulbs from cold winter weather.

    Humidity

    The red spider lily does best in relative humidity around 40-50%.

    What does a red spider lily symbolize

    Harvesting

    When you want to harvest the red spider lily, wait until it has finished flowering. Then cut the stalk at the base of the plant. After you harvest it, place your flower in a vase of water.

    In Conclusion

    The red spider lily is one of the most attractive plants one can grow in America. These flowers are stunning and make your lawn or garden look so beautiful. Why not try growing them today?

    Read more about Growing The Pink Spider Lily From Seed.

    FAQs

    What does a red spider lily symbolize?

    The red spider lily symbolizes final goodbyes and the story goes that they grow wherever people part ways for good. The red spider lily is also said to guide the dead through the cycle of rebirth in Buddhism.

    Can I touch a red spider lily?

    It is not recommended that you touch a red spider lily due to its fragility. If you choose to cut them for a bouquet, be very careful. 

    Do Red spider lilies come back every year?

    Yes, red spider lilies will bloom annually in most cases. They are hardy perennials that prefer well-draining soils. They grow best in full or partial sun, and they are drought tolerant.

    Do Red spider lilies grow wild?

    Yes, they can be found growing naturally in the southeastern United States.