Just curious if anyone has tried this way of planting before and if they had any luck/tips with it? I've got a layer of gravel, charcoal, perlite, vermiculite and finally gravel again. I've been keeping the water level up to halfway up the final layer of gravel with a dilute fertilizer and the ivy seems to be enjoying life so far. Thanks, -Ryan http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/4827/hydroivyps0.jpg http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/2120/hydroivy2np1.jpg
Soil-less planting is very possible and is gaining in popularity. There are several ways to do this. Certainly, you have discovered one of them. If you do a web search on various hydroponics techniques, you will find much information. Another application is for the aquarium. One can float terrestrial plants on the top of the water and/or use them in the shallow regions of a large tank to simulate a shoreline...both techniques not only make the aquarium more attractive, but also consume fish wastes to aid in filtration. For those with allergies to soil-borne fungi, soil-less gardening is a nice option for the indoor gardener. In addition, once the techniques have been mastered, the plants are often more healthy than those planted in soil.
Wow, thank you! I should have known to look online for some more ideas for this :) haha. I found an amazing webpage on growing Orchids this way. I'm all pumped now to try it out down the road. Thank you, -Ryan
Hi Nancy, I'm glad to hear that another person's going to give it a go :). I should also tell you that the book I got the idea from said to start with small plants that have been grown in soil because they tend to do better. I wasn't sure if I believed the books as I've ran into other sources saying the opposite but if my experiences are any indication, the book's right. My ivy that I changed from soil to water are growing great! My impatiens cuttings are growing a lot slower. Best of luck :) -Ryan
