Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Nifty Pics - Australia
I don’t know what it is about Australia, but since my teen years it’s been on my ‘top ten places I really, really, really want to visit before I die’ list. There’s just something about it. This week’s theme is all about this beautiful place down under.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
First World Problem
You just knew this was coming after yesterday’s Monday Musings post, didn’t you? Oh come now, you should know me by now; I couldn’t possibly allow an opportunity like this to go by. Especially if a little humour is involved.
Anyway...
At least for 2012, I will post a photo each week of a ridiculous ‘First World Problem’ or ‘FWP’ (an issue perceived as difficult to those residing in the more developed nations, but which is banal when compared to the difficulties encountered by those in the less developed ‘third world’ countries). And I’ll be the first to admit when I’m guilty of the week’s ludicrous ‘First World Problem’...
So, let’s get started. Here is this week’s shameful bellyache...
Anyway...
At least for 2012, I will post a photo each week of a ridiculous ‘First World Problem’ or ‘FWP’ (an issue perceived as difficult to those residing in the more developed nations, but which is banal when compared to the difficulties encountered by those in the less developed ‘third world’ countries). And I’ll be the first to admit when I’m guilty of the week’s ludicrous ‘First World Problem’...
So, let’s get started. Here is this week’s shameful bellyache...
Today’s Tidbit – Elephant Festival
Elephants have held a special place in Indian society for thousands of years; they have served in armies as living tanks and troop carriers, done hard labor, carried great burdens, lent dignity to official functions, and even helped level the very forests on which their lives depended. They are the living embodiment of the god Ganesh, and are considered precious, to be preserved and protected. It’s hardly surprising, then, that this magnificent animal is associated with an annual festival.
The Elephant Festival, celebrated every year in the month of March before the holi festival, is one of the most popular events held in Jaipur, Rajasthan in India. Tourists and locals gather in large crowds for this celebration at the Jaipur Chagan Stadium where elephants are the center of attention.
The participating elephants are females, and their keepers take great care to decorate them with vibrant colors, flowers, jhools (saddle cloth) and heavy jewelry. Elephant polo, Elephant race, and the tug-of-war between Elephant and 19 men and women are featured events of the festival. The most beautifully decorated elephant is awarded.
This sounds like a lovely festival. It must be quite a treat to watch elephants with anklets that jingle as they walk, and hot pink elephant toenails!
The Elephant Festival, celebrated every year in the month of March before the holi festival, is one of the most popular events held in Jaipur, Rajasthan in India. Tourists and locals gather in large crowds for this celebration at the Jaipur Chagan Stadium where elephants are the center of attention.
The participating elephants are females, and their keepers take great care to decorate them with vibrant colors, flowers, jhools (saddle cloth) and heavy jewelry. Elephant polo, Elephant race, and the tug-of-war between Elephant and 19 men and women are featured events of the festival. The most beautifully decorated elephant is awarded.
This sounds like a lovely festival. It must be quite a treat to watch elephants with anklets that jingle as they walk, and hot pink elephant toenails!
Monday, February 27, 2012
First World Problems
Every Thursday evening after supper, I drive my 14-year-old daughter to her guitar lesson, and while she’s there, I pop over to WalMart across the street, and hang around their books section until it’s time to pick her up (in the summer I hang around the garden center, obviously).
Anyway. After the lesson is over, I pick her up and we stop in at McDonald’s where we each enjoy a snack-sized Oreo McFlurry and some mother-daughter quality time that includes conversation (we don’t just sit and stare at each other as we stuff our faces). The topic of discussion varies, but it’s always interesting. A couple of weeks ago, I asked my daughter how things were with her boyfriend (yes, she already has one of those) to which she answered ‘great’. She likes many things about him, how thoughtful and caring he is, and that they have a lot in common.
“Like what?” I asked.
Like how they both agree that their generation is rotten. Spoiled. Whiny.
Huh?
“Have you heard about first world problems?” She asked.
“Yes, I have. There’s even a funny video about it that’s quickly circulating around the web”
“We complain about stupid things.” She said.
“We sure do.” I added. “Where do you think you fit in there?”
She surprised me by answering something like this: “Well, I’m a little bit like that. But maybe not too bad. I do complain about stupid stuff, but I know I shouldn’t.” (Admitting to be less than perfect in the teen years?)
“We all do.” I told her. “It’s all relative. We are complainers, and the complaints are relative to the lives we lead. The cushier our lives are and the smaller our problems are, the stupider our grievances. It’s shameful when you stop and think about it. There are people facing real problems in this world. Perhaps we should remind ourselves of that once in awhile, so we can practice gratitude instead of whininess.”
Sadly, she’s right. For a society that lives quite comfortably, we sure can find a lot to bellyache about.
Here is the video that makes me hang my head in shame because I’m guilty of some of the things depicted in it.
Perhaps today we can all practice gratitude for the comfortable lives we lead in wealthy, industrialized countries. Particularly those of us who don’t know what real problems are.
Anyway. After the lesson is over, I pick her up and we stop in at McDonald’s where we each enjoy a snack-sized Oreo McFlurry and some mother-daughter quality time that includes conversation (we don’t just sit and stare at each other as we stuff our faces). The topic of discussion varies, but it’s always interesting. A couple of weeks ago, I asked my daughter how things were with her boyfriend (yes, she already has one of those) to which she answered ‘great’. She likes many things about him, how thoughtful and caring he is, and that they have a lot in common.
“Like what?” I asked.
Like how they both agree that their generation is rotten. Spoiled. Whiny.
Huh?
“Have you heard about first world problems?” She asked.
“Yes, I have. There’s even a funny video about it that’s quickly circulating around the web”
“We complain about stupid things.” She said.
“We sure do.” I added. “Where do you think you fit in there?”
She surprised me by answering something like this: “Well, I’m a little bit like that. But maybe not too bad. I do complain about stupid stuff, but I know I shouldn’t.” (Admitting to be less than perfect in the teen years?)
“We all do.” I told her. “It’s all relative. We are complainers, and the complaints are relative to the lives we lead. The cushier our lives are and the smaller our problems are, the stupider our grievances. It’s shameful when you stop and think about it. There are people facing real problems in this world. Perhaps we should remind ourselves of that once in awhile, so we can practice gratitude instead of whininess.”
Sadly, she’s right. For a society that lives quite comfortably, we sure can find a lot to bellyache about.
Here is the video that makes me hang my head in shame because I’m guilty of some of the things depicted in it.
Perhaps today we can all practice gratitude for the comfortable lives we lead in wealthy, industrialized countries. Particularly those of us who don’t know what real problems are.
Book It - Blood Done Sign My Name
This week’s featured book:
Blood Done Sign My Name
Author: Timothy B. Tyson
Overview:
"Daddy and Roger and 'em shot 'em a nigger."
Those words, whispered to ten-year-old Tim Tyson by one of his playmates in the late spring of 1970, heralded a firestorm that would forever transform the small tobacco market town of Oxford, North Carolina.
On May 11, 1970, Henry Marrow, a 23-year-old black veteran, walked into a crossroads store owned by Robert Teel, a rough man with a criminal record and ties to the Ku Klux Klan, and came out running. Teel and two of his sons chased Marrow, beat him unmercifully, and killed him in public as he pleaded for his life. In the words of a local prosecutor: "They shot him like you or I would kill a snake."
Like many small Southern towns, Oxford had barely been touched by the civil rights movement. But in the wake of the killing, young African Americans took to the streets. While lawyers battled in the courthouse, the Klan raged in the shadows and black Vietnam veterans torched the town’s tobacco warehouses. Tyson’s father, the pastor of Oxford’s all-white Methodist church, urged the town to come to terms with its bloody racial history. In the end, however, the Tyson family was forced to move away.
Tim Tyson’s riveting narrative of that fiery summer brings gritty blues truth, soaring gospel vision, and down-home humor to a shocking episode of our history. Like To Kill a Mockingbird, Blood Done Sign My Name is a classic portrait of an unforgettable time and place.
My Comments:
Written by a professor of African-American studies, this is a candid and engaging autobiographical story about the racial struggles, which often prompted vileness and violence on all sides, in a segregated southern town where white supremacy ruled, unapologetically, after the Civil Rights Act.
This book, which goes far beyond being a story about a racist murder, is an amazing journey through racial attitudes and beliefs. You will laugh and you will cry, but most of all, you be haunted by the view of race in the 1960s and 70s that is not commonly portrayed. This powerful book includes historical truths that we’d rather forget, truths that still bear repeating, over and over again, so we may learn from them.
Blood Done Sign My Name
Author: Timothy B. Tyson
Overview:
"Daddy and Roger and 'em shot 'em a nigger."
Those words, whispered to ten-year-old Tim Tyson by one of his playmates in the late spring of 1970, heralded a firestorm that would forever transform the small tobacco market town of Oxford, North Carolina.
On May 11, 1970, Henry Marrow, a 23-year-old black veteran, walked into a crossroads store owned by Robert Teel, a rough man with a criminal record and ties to the Ku Klux Klan, and came out running. Teel and two of his sons chased Marrow, beat him unmercifully, and killed him in public as he pleaded for his life. In the words of a local prosecutor: "They shot him like you or I would kill a snake."
Like many small Southern towns, Oxford had barely been touched by the civil rights movement. But in the wake of the killing, young African Americans took to the streets. While lawyers battled in the courthouse, the Klan raged in the shadows and black Vietnam veterans torched the town’s tobacco warehouses. Tyson’s father, the pastor of Oxford’s all-white Methodist church, urged the town to come to terms with its bloody racial history. In the end, however, the Tyson family was forced to move away.
Tim Tyson’s riveting narrative of that fiery summer brings gritty blues truth, soaring gospel vision, and down-home humor to a shocking episode of our history. Like To Kill a Mockingbird, Blood Done Sign My Name is a classic portrait of an unforgettable time and place.
My Comments:
Written by a professor of African-American studies, this is a candid and engaging autobiographical story about the racial struggles, which often prompted vileness and violence on all sides, in a segregated southern town where white supremacy ruled, unapologetically, after the Civil Rights Act.
This book, which goes far beyond being a story about a racist murder, is an amazing journey through racial attitudes and beliefs. You will laugh and you will cry, but most of all, you be haunted by the view of race in the 1960s and 70s that is not commonly portrayed. This powerful book includes historical truths that we’d rather forget, truths that still bear repeating, over and over again, so we may learn from them.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Our Garden Has Blossomed With TLC
When we first bought out home in 2009, the gardening aspects of it were a neglected mess. I knew it would take a lot of work – and many years – before all the landscaping was at a level that would appeal to us and add some natural beauty to our house. But I didn’t really mind; it was a project I embraced wholeheartedly. I still do. And although there is still so much more to do, things have come a long way since then.
For example, this is what you saw in our backyard that first summer:
 |
| Nothing to see here, folks, nothing to see... |
And this is what you saw by the end of August 2011, two years later:
 |
| Hubby and I sit on that swing and enjoy the beauty around us. |
 |
| There are so many flowers around our home now. |
 |
| This is where you'll find me hanging out soon. |
We're getting there...slowly but surely!
This year’s gardening season is just around the corner, and I have a list of glorious plans for it. I can’t wait to get down and dirty with Mother Nature!
Snapshot Sunday
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”
- Albert Einstein -
With the winter having been so erratic, I fear that some of my more fragile plants will not be returning this spring, like the gorgeous Rudbeckia hirta ‘Indian Summer’. That would be sad.
We’ll just have to wait and see what happens this gardening season. I have my fingers crossed...
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Saturday Silliness
It’s time for some silliness...
KIDS' THOUGHTS ON LIFE
"Never smart off to a teacher whose eyes and ears are twitching." - Andrew, Age 9
"Wear a hat when feeding seagulls." - Rocky, age 9
"Sleep in your clothes so you'll be dressed in the morning." - Stephanie, age 8
"Don't flush the john when your dad's in the shower." - Lamar, age 10
"Never ask for anything that costs more than $5 when your parents are doing taxes." - Carrol, age 9
"Never bug a pregnant mom." - Nicholas, age 11
"Don't ever be too full for dessert." - Kelly, age 10
"When your dad is mad and asks you, 'Do I look stupid?' don't answer him." - Heather, age 16
"Never tell your mom her diet's not working." - Michael, age 14
"Don't pick on your sister when she's holding a baseball bat." - Joel, age 12
"When you get a bad grade in school, show it to your mom when she's on the phone." - Alyesha, age 13
"Never try to baptize a cat." - Laura, age 13
"Never do pranks at a police station." - Sam, age 10
"Beware of cafeteria food when it looks like it's moving." - Rob, age 10
"Never tell your little brother that you're not going to do what your mom told you to do." - Hank, age 12
"Listen to your brain. It has lots of information." - Chelsey, age 7
"Stay away from prunes." - Randy, age 9
"Never dare your little brother to paint the family car." - Phillip, age 13
"Forget the cake, go for the icing." - Cynthia, age 8
"Remember the two places you are always welcome: church and Grandma's house." - Joanne, age 11
"When you want something expensive, ask your grandparents." - Matthew, age 12
LETTER FROM THE TOOTH FAIRY
Dear _______________:
Thank you for leaving one [1] tooth under your pillow last night.
While we make every attempt to leave a monetary reward in the case of lost or stolen children's teeth, we were unable to process your request for the following reason(s) indicated below:
( ) the tooth could not be found
( ) it was not a human tooth
( ) we do not think that pieces of chicken bone are very funny
( ) we were unable to approach the tooth due to excessive odor
( ) the tooth has previously been redeemed for cash
( ) the tooth did not originally belong to you
( ) the tooth fairy does not process fingernails
( ) your request has been forwarded to the Nerve Ending Fairy for appropriate action
( ) you were overheard to state that you do not believe in the tooth fairy
( ) you are age 12 or older at the time your request was received
( ) the tooth is still in your mouth
( ) the tooth was guarded by a vicious fairy-eating dog at the time of our visit
( ) no night light was on at the time of our visit
( ) the snacks provided for the tooth fairy were not satisfactory, or were missing
( ) we discovered evidence of unsafe tooth extraction as follows:
[ ] string
[ ] pliers
[ ] gunpowder
[ ] hammer marks
[ ] chisel
[ ] part of skull attached to tooth
[ ] no dental care
( ) other:
Thank you for your request, and we look forward to serving you in the future.
Sincerely,
The Tooth Fairy
KIDS' THOUGHTS ON LIFE
"Never smart off to a teacher whose eyes and ears are twitching." - Andrew, Age 9
"Wear a hat when feeding seagulls." - Rocky, age 9
"Sleep in your clothes so you'll be dressed in the morning." - Stephanie, age 8
"Don't flush the john when your dad's in the shower." - Lamar, age 10
"Never ask for anything that costs more than $5 when your parents are doing taxes." - Carrol, age 9
"Never bug a pregnant mom." - Nicholas, age 11
"Don't ever be too full for dessert." - Kelly, age 10
"When your dad is mad and asks you, 'Do I look stupid?' don't answer him." - Heather, age 16
"Never tell your mom her diet's not working." - Michael, age 14
"Don't pick on your sister when she's holding a baseball bat." - Joel, age 12
"When you get a bad grade in school, show it to your mom when she's on the phone." - Alyesha, age 13
"Never try to baptize a cat." - Laura, age 13
"Never do pranks at a police station." - Sam, age 10
"Beware of cafeteria food when it looks like it's moving." - Rob, age 10
"Never tell your little brother that you're not going to do what your mom told you to do." - Hank, age 12
"Listen to your brain. It has lots of information." - Chelsey, age 7
"Stay away from prunes." - Randy, age 9
"Never dare your little brother to paint the family car." - Phillip, age 13
"Forget the cake, go for the icing." - Cynthia, age 8
"Remember the two places you are always welcome: church and Grandma's house." - Joanne, age 11
"When you want something expensive, ask your grandparents." - Matthew, age 12
LETTER FROM THE TOOTH FAIRY
Dear _______________:
Thank you for leaving one [1] tooth under your pillow last night.
While we make every attempt to leave a monetary reward in the case of lost or stolen children's teeth, we were unable to process your request for the following reason(s) indicated below:
( ) the tooth could not be found
( ) it was not a human tooth
( ) we do not think that pieces of chicken bone are very funny
( ) we were unable to approach the tooth due to excessive odor
( ) the tooth has previously been redeemed for cash
( ) the tooth did not originally belong to you
( ) the tooth fairy does not process fingernails
( ) your request has been forwarded to the Nerve Ending Fairy for appropriate action
( ) you were overheard to state that you do not believe in the tooth fairy
( ) you are age 12 or older at the time your request was received
( ) the tooth is still in your mouth
( ) the tooth was guarded by a vicious fairy-eating dog at the time of our visit
( ) no night light was on at the time of our visit
( ) the snacks provided for the tooth fairy were not satisfactory, or were missing
( ) we discovered evidence of unsafe tooth extraction as follows:
[ ] string
[ ] pliers
[ ] gunpowder
[ ] hammer marks
[ ] chisel
[ ] part of skull attached to tooth
[ ] no dental care
( ) other:
Thank you for your request, and we look forward to serving you in the future.
Sincerely,
The Tooth Fairy
Friday, February 24, 2012
Sunny Side Up
"Isn't it strange? The same people who laugh at gypsy fortune tellers take economists seriously."
- Cincinnati Enquirer-
If you’re concerned about your clothes getting tighter, this week’s end of the week smile will finally explain what’s going on...
Enjoy the weekend!
Converting Plants To Hydroculture
Here is a step-by-step explanation - with photos - on how to convert houseplants from soil to hydroculture. The information below has been written to help anyone interested in hydroculture fully understand the conversion process.
Let’s get started.
PART ONE: THE HYDROCULTURE SYSTEM EXPLAINED
What Is Hydroculture?
Hydroculture is the method of growing plants without soil. You have most likely heard about ‘Hydroponics’, an automated method of growing plants in water, mostly related to the production of food. Hydroculture, related to hydroponics but functioning quite differently, is the low-end of growing plants in water. It is also referred to as passive hydroponics, which means that it lacks all the automation commonly associated with hydroponics.
The Equipment Used
The hydroculture system consists of five basic parts:
1) outer pot (for holding the water reservoir)
2) culture pot (inner growing pot)
3) growing medium (expanded, fired clay pellets)
4) water level indicator
5) nutrient (fertilizer)
Outer Pot
The outer pot (container) is a closed water reservoir that can be any size, shape or colour and is available in many different forms: ceramic, plastic, stone, glass, terracotta, etc. Any closed planter or container can be used as an outer pot as long as it’s impermeable and incapable of releasing harmful chemicals into the water. If you decide to use chemical-releasing containers, such as brass or copper, consider lining them with plastic to protect your plants.
Culture Pot
The culture pot is the heart of the hydro system, available on the market in many different sizes to accommodate an assortment of plants. Fitting snugly into the outer pot, it is made of plastic with slits all around the base that guarantee maximum air flow through the growing medium and the root zone. The design of the culture pot also allows for a water level indicator to be attached firmly.
With its concave bottom, only the external portion of the pot makes contact with the outer pot and the nutrient solution. The special design of the culture pot assures that the plant’s root are not growing in water; they are growing above the water, surrounded by the clay pellets, which draw the moisture up by capillary action from the supply in the outer pot. Roots are never wet, just evenly moist.
The Growing Medium
Clay pellets are the growing medium of choice. They take the place of soil, are porous, retain moisture and transfer water to the roots by capillary action. These pellets are light in weight, do not compact, are inert, ph neutral, contain no nutrients and are completely reusable; you can clean and sterilize them after use.
The pellets drain freely and don’t hold excess water, providing good oxygen levels around the root area. This growing medium called LECA (Light Expanded Clay Aggregate) also provides the necessary support for the plant along with its ability to absorb the correct amount of water and oxygen. Healthy and beautiful plants are guaranteed with this optimal ratio of water and oxygen.
Water Level Indicator
The water level indicator, resembling a thermometer, fits neatly into a slot in the culture-pot and is used as a water gauge. There are three markers on the indicator: min (minimum), opt (optimum), max (maximum). The marker in the indicator rises as water is added and falls as the water is used up by the plant. When the indicator reaches the minimum level, it signifies that the pot is completely empty and it’s time to add water. The water level should always be kept at the opt (optimum) level. Only under special circumstances should you fill the pot to the max (maximum) mark, such as extended absences from home.
Nutrient
Hydroculture plants have a regular feeding schedule, which eliminates the guesswork involved in traditional growing methods. Feeding frequency depends on which kind of plant food you decide is most convenient. The two basic choices are liquid fertilizer and slow release nutrient. Liquid fertilizer can be added at every watering while the slow release nutrient - loose granules sprinkled on top of the clay pebbles or a gelled disk that is placed in the bottom of the hydroculture water reservoir – is added every 4 - 6 months.
PART TWO: HOW TO CONVERT PLANTS FROM SOIL TO HYDROCULTURE
Prepare The Pellets
If you’ve just picked up a new bag of clay pellets, rinse them under running tap water in a colander or strainer to remove dust caused by shipping and handling. Likewise, clean pellets that haven’t been put to use for a long time. When the water runs clear, which signifies that the clay pellets are clean, soak them in water overnight – or at least for a few hours - to saturate them. If your pellets are not new, and they’ve been used recently, just rinse them a bit and use them right away.
Convert Only Healthy Specimens
No matter how hardy a plant, converting it from soil to water will cause it stress. If the plant is in poor shape the results will be less than satisfactory and the plant may even die, so choose only healthy specimens. In addition, do not convert plants that are infested by pests; get rid of the infestation first and convert the plant only after its health has been fully restored.
To Water Or Not To Water
Before you convert your plant, decide whether you want to let the soil dry out completely or whether you want to give your plant a hearty drink. there are advantages and disadvantages to both. A plant whose thirst has been quenched may be able to handle the conversion much better, but it will be more difficult to remove all traces of caked on soil from the roots. Those roots will eventually rot so it’ll be important to check the plant regularly below the surface. On the other hand, a parched plant will have a more difficult time dealing with the process, but the roots will be easier to clean. I personally convert my plants when they are dry, but my ‘practical’ advice to you is this: Water thin-leaved, thirsty plants thoroughly before converting and let succulents dry since they have the ability to store water and easily survive droughts.
Prune The Roots And Remove All Traces Of Soil
Remove the plant selected for conversion from its pot. If the plant does not slip out easily, squeeze the sides of the pot or use a knife or spoon to loosen the soil. Remove dead or unhealthy roots and prune back the
rest - especially the longer ones - about 1/3 to encourage new growth. Don’t be afraid of this step; as your plant grows new water roots, the soil roots will become useless either way.
Crumble away as much of the soil surrounding the remaining roots as possible. Remember to be gentle when you are working with the root system.
Once you have removed as much dirt as you can by hand, rinse the roots under tepid running water in your sink or bathtub to remove whatever traces of loose soil are left. Massage the root area with your hands to help with the cleaning but don’t be too rough.
For traces of soil that are too hard to remove, use a soft toothbrush, sponge or cloth and scrub lightly. You can also soak the root ball in water for several hours or overnight to aide in this process. Be sure that the roots are completely free of all traces of soil. Any soil left on the roots can lead to rot.
If it is utterly impossible to remove all the soil, even after a night of soaking, don’t fret. Clean the roots as thoroughly as you can and pot up the plant in hydroculture. After ten day to two weeks, disassemble the setup, give the roots another rinsing and repot.
Pot Up The Plant In The Culture Pot
Before you begin, install the water level indicator in the lining of the culture pot. Your plant is now ready to be added to its new container.
Pot it up the same way as you would in soil. Add a layer of clay pellets at the bottom of the culture pot. The amount of medium added can be an inch or two, maybe more. It all depends on the depth of your pot and how tall your plant is. The process is similar to the way you add some soil at the bottom of your pot before placing your plant on top of it in traditional growing styles.
Place the plant into the culture pot on top of the layer of pellets, spread the roots out across the medium and slowly fill up the pot, adding clay pellets to within ¼” of the top of the pot; this will anchor the plant.
Place The Setup Into The Outer Pot
The roots are clean, the water level indicator is inserted and the plant is potted. There’s only one thing left to do: move the whole kit and caboodle into an outer pot and add some moisture.
Pour water over the pellets until the water indicator reads optimum. Do not water again until the indicator reaches the minimum setting. Something worth remembering: clay pebbles retain moisture for a few days so don’t worry if you don’t add water immediately when the indicator reaches the minimum level; your plant will be fine.
What To Expect
The development of water roots may take anywhere from 2 - 12 weeks. During that period, there are a few things you can expect that are perfectly normal.
The reaction of each plant is unique; no two plants convert the same way. But no matter how your newly-converted plant reacts, don’t give up on it during this period. Whether it sheds a couple of leaves or hangs over its pot miserably, be patient. It will survive and bounce back. Never toss out a plant simply because of its dramatic display; chances are it is still alive.
How You Can Help
You are aware that until your plant grows water roots it will be a stressful period for it. Without proper roots it does not have the
ability to pull up water adequately, and will struggle to stay hydrated. You can make the transition easier. Below are a few things you can do to aid in the process:
The information above has been written to provide you with a clear understanding of what’s involved in hydroculture – the conversion of the plant (the most pertinent) and the equipment included. But unlike the medium, which is the core of the system and cannot be compromised, culture pots, outer pots, water level indicators and hydroponics fertilizers – the standard hydroculture setup – can be customized, and even compromised, to suit your needs. I personally prefer clear glass containers that allow me to monitor the water level thus eliminating the need for water level indicators and the use of double pots.
Now that you’re equipped with all the necessary information, what are you waiting for? Get growing with hydroculture.
Let’s get started.
PART ONE: THE HYDROCULTURE SYSTEM EXPLAINED
What Is Hydroculture?
Hydroculture is the method of growing plants without soil. You have most likely heard about ‘Hydroponics’, an automated method of growing plants in water, mostly related to the production of food. Hydroculture, related to hydroponics but functioning quite differently, is the low-end of growing plants in water. It is also referred to as passive hydroponics, which means that it lacks all the automation commonly associated with hydroponics.
The Equipment Used
The hydroculture system consists of five basic parts:
1) outer pot (for holding the water reservoir)
2) culture pot (inner growing pot)
3) growing medium (expanded, fired clay pellets)
4) water level indicator
5) nutrient (fertilizer)
Outer Pot
The outer pot (container) is a closed water reservoir that can be any size, shape or colour and is available in many different forms: ceramic, plastic, stone, glass, terracotta, etc. Any closed planter or container can be used as an outer pot as long as it’s impermeable and incapable of releasing harmful chemicals into the water. If you decide to use chemical-releasing containers, such as brass or copper, consider lining them with plastic to protect your plants.
Culture Pot
With its concave bottom, only the external portion of the pot makes contact with the outer pot and the nutrient solution. The special design of the culture pot assures that the plant’s root are not growing in water; they are growing above the water, surrounded by the clay pellets, which draw the moisture up by capillary action from the supply in the outer pot. Roots are never wet, just evenly moist.
The Growing Medium
Clay pellets are the growing medium of choice. They take the place of soil, are porous, retain moisture and transfer water to the roots by capillary action. These pellets are light in weight, do not compact, are inert, ph neutral, contain no nutrients and are completely reusable; you can clean and sterilize them after use.
The pellets drain freely and don’t hold excess water, providing good oxygen levels around the root area. This growing medium called LECA (Light Expanded Clay Aggregate) also provides the necessary support for the plant along with its ability to absorb the correct amount of water and oxygen. Healthy and beautiful plants are guaranteed with this optimal ratio of water and oxygen.
Water Level Indicator
Nutrient
Hydroculture plants have a regular feeding schedule, which eliminates the guesswork involved in traditional growing methods. Feeding frequency depends on which kind of plant food you decide is most convenient. The two basic choices are liquid fertilizer and slow release nutrient. Liquid fertilizer can be added at every watering while the slow release nutrient - loose granules sprinkled on top of the clay pebbles or a gelled disk that is placed in the bottom of the hydroculture water reservoir – is added every 4 - 6 months.
PART TWO: HOW TO CONVERT PLANTS FROM SOIL TO HYDROCULTURE
Prepare The Pellets
If you’ve just picked up a new bag of clay pellets, rinse them under running tap water in a colander or strainer to remove dust caused by shipping and handling. Likewise, clean pellets that haven’t been put to use for a long time. When the water runs clear, which signifies that the clay pellets are clean, soak them in water overnight – or at least for a few hours - to saturate them. If your pellets are not new, and they’ve been used recently, just rinse them a bit and use them right away.
Convert Only Healthy Specimens
No matter how hardy a plant, converting it from soil to water will cause it stress. If the plant is in poor shape the results will be less than satisfactory and the plant may even die, so choose only healthy specimens. In addition, do not convert plants that are infested by pests; get rid of the infestation first and convert the plant only after its health has been fully restored.
To Water Or Not To Water
Before you convert your plant, decide whether you want to let the soil dry out completely or whether you want to give your plant a hearty drink. there are advantages and disadvantages to both. A plant whose thirst has been quenched may be able to handle the conversion much better, but it will be more difficult to remove all traces of caked on soil from the roots. Those roots will eventually rot so it’ll be important to check the plant regularly below the surface. On the other hand, a parched plant will have a more difficult time dealing with the process, but the roots will be easier to clean. I personally convert my plants when they are dry, but my ‘practical’ advice to you is this: Water thin-leaved, thirsty plants thoroughly before converting and let succulents dry since they have the ability to store water and easily survive droughts.
Prune The Roots And Remove All Traces Of Soil
Remove the plant selected for conversion from its pot. If the plant does not slip out easily, squeeze the sides of the pot or use a knife or spoon to loosen the soil. Remove dead or unhealthy roots and prune back the
rest - especially the longer ones - about 1/3 to encourage new growth. Don’t be afraid of this step; as your plant grows new water roots, the soil roots will become useless either way.
Crumble away as much of the soil surrounding the remaining roots as possible. Remember to be gentle when you are working with the root system.
Once you have removed as much dirt as you can by hand, rinse the roots under tepid running water in your sink or bathtub to remove whatever traces of loose soil are left. Massage the root area with your hands to help with the cleaning but don’t be too rough.
For traces of soil that are too hard to remove, use a soft toothbrush, sponge or cloth and scrub lightly. You can also soak the root ball in water for several hours or overnight to aide in this process. Be sure that the roots are completely free of all traces of soil. Any soil left on the roots can lead to rot.
If it is utterly impossible to remove all the soil, even after a night of soaking, don’t fret. Clean the roots as thoroughly as you can and pot up the plant in hydroculture. After ten day to two weeks, disassemble the setup, give the roots another rinsing and repot.
Pot Up The Plant In The Culture Pot
Before you begin, install the water level indicator in the lining of the culture pot. Your plant is now ready to be added to its new container.
Pot it up the same way as you would in soil. Add a layer of clay pellets at the bottom of the culture pot. The amount of medium added can be an inch or two, maybe more. It all depends on the depth of your pot and how tall your plant is. The process is similar to the way you add some soil at the bottom of your pot before placing your plant on top of it in traditional growing styles.
Place the plant into the culture pot on top of the layer of pellets, spread the roots out across the medium and slowly fill up the pot, adding clay pellets to within ¼” of the top of the pot; this will anchor the plant.
Place The Setup Into The Outer Pot
The roots are clean, the water level indicator is inserted and the plant is potted. There’s only one thing left to do: move the whole kit and caboodle into an outer pot and add some moisture.
Pour water over the pellets until the water indicator reads optimum. Do not water again until the indicator reaches the minimum setting. Something worth remembering: clay pebbles retain moisture for a few days so don’t worry if you don’t add water immediately when the indicator reaches the minimum level; your plant will be fine.
What To Expect
The development of water roots may take anywhere from 2 - 12 weeks. During that period, there are a few things you can expect that are perfectly normal.
- Most of the plants will react with some wilting but hold onto their leaves.
- Some plants will go into shock for a short while and display minor symptoms of stress such as wilting, minimal leaf shedding and yellowing of leaves.
- A very small number of plants will shed almost all of their leaves and grow new ones after they’ve converted.
- The majority of flowering plants will lose their buds. You might want to consider converting these specimens after the blooming period is over.
- A few plants suspend the growth process of emerging leaves, no matter what stage they’re in, until water roots form. Then they resume the growing process as if nothing happened. This is a truly amazing thing to witness.
- A surprisingly large quantity of plants does not react negatively - at all. They are either oblivious to the conversion or - most likely - unconcerned. These champions grow water roots very quickly.
The reaction of each plant is unique; no two plants convert the same way. But no matter how your newly-converted plant reacts, don’t give up on it during this period. Whether it sheds a couple of leaves or hangs over its pot miserably, be patient. It will survive and bounce back. Never toss out a plant simply because of its dramatic display; chances are it is still alive.
How You Can Help
You are aware that until your plant grows water roots it will be a stressful period for it. Without proper roots it does not have the
ability to pull up water adequately, and will struggle to stay hydrated. You can make the transition easier. Below are a few things you can do to aid in the process:
- Spray the plant several times a day with water to provide it with much needed moisture.
- Place the entire pot on a pebble tray filled with water that will rise and surround the pot with humidity.
- Cover the plant with a clear plastic bag until it converts to keep humidity high.
- Keep the plant out of the direct path of the sun and drafts.
The information above has been written to provide you with a clear understanding of what’s involved in hydroculture – the conversion of the plant (the most pertinent) and the equipment included. But unlike the medium, which is the core of the system and cannot be compromised, culture pots, outer pots, water level indicators and hydroponics fertilizers – the standard hydroculture setup – can be customized, and even compromised, to suit your needs. I personally prefer clear glass containers that allow me to monitor the water level thus eliminating the need for water level indicators and the use of double pots.
Now that you’re equipped with all the necessary information, what are you waiting for? Get growing with hydroculture.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
LinkWithin
