The parlor palm, also known as Chamaedorea elegans, is a popular houseplant famous for its graceful, arching fronds Native to the rainforests of Central America, parlor palms thrive in warm, humid environments with bright, indirect light. While traditionally grown in soil, these tropical palms can also be successfully cultivated hydroponically, entirely in water
Parlor palm hydroculture offers some exciting benefits but also comes with challenges. By setting up the right growing conditions and following proper care techniques, you can help your parlor palm flourish when grown in water.
In this complete guide, we’ll look at everything you need to know about cultivating parlor palms hydroponically. Read on to learn about the pros and cons of growing this palm in water, essential setup tips, recommended containers, and key care instructions for keeping your aquatic palm healthy.
What Are the Benefits of Growing Parlor Palm in Water?
Switching your parlor palm to a water-based hydroponic setup comes with some great advantages. Here are a few of the biggest benefits of growing parlor palm in water:
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Reduced soil pests and diseases: When grown in soil, parlor palms can suffer from fungal problems like root rot. Hydroculture prevents soil-borne diseases.
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Easy monitoring of roots: Growing in water makes it simple to monitor the health and growth of your palm’s roots.
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Flexible placement: With no soil, a hydroponic parlor palm setup can fit where regular potted plants cannot. Tabletops, hanging planters, and wall mounts are all options.
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Conversation piece: The aquatic roots look cool and are a unique decor choice for your home. Guests will be fascinated by your underwater palm.
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Potentially faster growth: Some parlor palm owners report faster frond growth with hydroculture compared to soil growing. Better oxygenation for the roots may boost development.
For these reasons and more, parlor palm hydroponics can be an exciting endeavor for plant parents. The benefits are clear, but hydroculture also comes with some challenges.
What Are the Challenges of Parlor Palm Hydroculture?
Growing plants in water rather than soil has some natural drawbacks. Here are the key difficulties you may encounter with parlor palm hydroculture:
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Increased risk of root rot: Without proper oxygen flow, underwater roots can rot. Proper setup is vital.
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Nutrient deficiencies: Soil provides a continuous feed of nutrients. In water, you must regularly fertilize to prevent deficiencies.
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Mineral buildup: Tap water high in minerals like fluoride can accumulate and burn aquatic plant roots over time. Filtering is needed.
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Transition period: Switching from soil to water can shock palms. Expect some leaf yellowing initially as the plant adapts.
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Tipping risk: Without the weight and stability of soil, hydroculture palms in lightweight containers can tip over easily.
While certainly manageable with the right techniques, these are important factors to consider before attempting parlor palm hydroponics. Promoting healthy roots and providing nutrients are vital for success.
7 Tips for Growing Parlor Palm in Water
If you want to try hydroculture with your parlor palm, follow these tips for the best results:
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Select a healthy, mature palm. Young, juvenile plants won’t adapt as well.
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Wash all old soil off the roots before submerging in water. Gently remove dead roots.
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Use filtered water like distilled or reverse osmosis to prevent mineral buildup.
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Fertilize regularly with hydroponic palm fertilizer to provide nutrients.
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Give bright, indirect sunlight to avoid algae growth in water.
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Add supports like bamboo stakes initially to stabilize the palm.
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Monitor for leaf yellowing and remove any yellow fronds to focus energy on new growth.
5 Best Containers for Parlor Palm Hydroculture
The vessel you choose for a hydroponic parlor palm plays a big role in success. Look for these features in a hydroponic palm planter:
- Clear sides to view roots
- Stability to prevent tipping
- Ample water volume
- Drain holes for flushing
- Visually appealing design
Based on these criteria, some excellent hydroculture containers include:
- Glass vases and jars
- Plastic buckets
- Acrylic boxes
- Hanging glass globes
- Wall-mounted bubble bowls
Match your palm’s size with a suitable hydroponic vessel for the best results.
Caring for a Hydroponic Parlor Palm
Caring for a hydroponic parlor palm differs from typical soil-based care. Here are some key tips:
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Change water weekly and use filtered water to prevent salt buildup.
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Prune off any yellow or dying fronds to direct energy into new growth.
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Provide bright, indirect light to avoid algae. Rotate the palm for even exposure.
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Use hydroponic palm fertilizer according to label directions and flush salts monthly.
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Monitor closely for signs of deficiencies, rot, or pests. Catch issues early.
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Transplant into fresh water every 2-3 years to prevent long-term salt accumulation.
With attentive care, your hydroponic parlor palm can thrive for years. Enjoy this unique way to grow an aquatic indoor palm!
Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Parlor Palm in Water
Can you grow a parlor palm fully submerged in water?
While some aquatic plants can grow fully submerged, parlor palms need their leaves in air. Only their roots can be continually underwater.
How long can a parlor palm survive in just water?
With the proper hydroponic setup and care, parlor palms can live entirely in water indefinitely. Their lifespan is similar to soil-grown palms.
Do you need to add nutrients when growing parlor palm in water?
Yes, regular fertilization is essential when growing parlor palms hydroponically. Water alone lacks the nutrients that soil provides.
What causes leaf yellowing in hydroponic parlor palms?
Yellow parlor palm leaves usually indicate a nutrient deficiency. Boost fertilizer levels and remove any yellow fronds to allow new green growth.
Can you transition an established potted parlor palm to water?
It is possible but can be challenging. Slowly acclimating the plant over several weeks gives the best results. Expect some shock and leaf drop initially.
Growing parlor palms in water requires care and effort but can yield beautiful results. With the right setup and conditions, both you and your guests can enjoy the vibrant aquatic foliage and visible roots of this uniquely grown tropical plant.
What to Look for When Buying Jasmine
When you source your jasmine flowers, there are some key indicators of quality and freshness to look out for:
- Tightly closed buds – Avoid flowers that are already open and blooming; tighter buds last longer.
- Bright white petals – Jasmine blooms should be bright, pure white. Yellowing or wilting suggests age.
- Intact blooms – Flowers should be intact on the stem, not crushed or damaged.
- Ample fragrance – Fresh jasmine is highly fragrant. Give flowers a sniff to check aroma.
- No browning – Leaves and buds should be vibrant green with no browning.
- Good stem length – Longer stems allow more flexibility for arranging and decorating.
- Proper storage – Seller should store flowers chilled and in water to maintain freshness.
Where to Buy Jasmine Flowers Locally
Luckily, with the availability of imports, it’s relatively easy to find authentic, high-quality Indian jasmine flowers in most major US metros. Here are some tips on finding fresh jasmine near you:
- Search for Indian grocery stores or flower shops in your city Brick-and-mortar Indian markets and florists will often stock fresh jasmine flown in several times a week from India. The blooms are cared for properly and you can inspect quality and fragrance
- Look for online sellers that ship nationwide. Many vendors specializing in Indian flowers now offer nationwide shipping on fresh jasmine. Options like Jasmine Flowers 2 Go or Jasmine for SoCal allow you to order jasmine to be delivered directly to your door.
- Ask friends for local recommendations. Talk to Indian friends, neighbors or colleagues about where they source jasmine flowers. People are usually happy to share supplier information.
- Search local listings on Google Maps. Using search terms like “Indian flowers” or “jasmine flowers near me” can help surface florists and specialty stores in your area.
- Check for local farmers markets or nurseries. Some urban farms or specialty nurseries may grow jasmine plants and sell cut flowers. Bonus – locally grown flowers are fresher.
- Look for temples or cultural centers. Hindu or Indian cultural centers, temples, mosques and churches may sell jasmine flowers for offerings or ceremonies.