i have an arrowhead plant that i cannot get to grow in soil. i have tried to plant it in several different types of potting soils and mixtures, but i starts to die off every time. i have managed to save a stalk or two each time, and it loves to be in a vase of water. it really doesn't like fresh water either. it tends to do best when the water has a slimy film on it. i would really like to move it to soil since the cat likes to knock it over and it's a mess to clean up. any suggestions? thanks
it's an aroid and, as such, needs a very well-draining soil that retains some bit of moisture for a bit. i use a mix of orchid bark, peat, orchid mix (ceramic bits, charcoal bits and bark bits) and some peat and/or regular potting soil. you can use perlite or aquarium soil (ceramic bits) in lieu of the orchid mix. if you use regular potting soil, go light with it as it compacts easily and that will smother the roots - the peat will stay a bit more 'airy'. the container needs to have good drainage holes on the bottom. generally, indirect very bright light is good for them. direct light is okay if it's not all that intense - so, that would be morning sun (eastern exposure) or southern or western exposure if the plant is not directly in front of the window during the hottest part of the afternoon. water thoroughly and allow the soil to dry slightly before watering again.
Joclyn's advice is very good. The plant is likely a member of the genus Syngonium but without a photo it is not possible to tell you which one. Chances are high it is a form of Synonium podophyllum. Some growers prefer to add more organic material but the mix isn't critical as long as it drains quickly while holding some moisture. http://www.exoticrainforest.com/Syngonium Species pc.html Put it in a basket that will hang but has a bottom to catch the excess water. Unless the cat is a jumper that should solve the problem.
thanks for the advice. should have asked before - does it need any fertilizer? ** the cat jumps as little as possible - he's talk enough to step up onto about everything or if he can't, he works his way around the room until he gets to where he wants to go. i should be able to find a place to hang it he can't get to. thanks again.
Dilute liquid fertilizer works best if given every week or every other week. The easy way is to just use Osmocote or a similar pelleted fertilizer. 14-14-14 is best for this plant but 10-10-10 will do fine. Follow the directions and only fertilize about every three months if you use the pellets.
