Moisture Crystals and Water-Loving Plants in Ground

After reading a scientific study noting that some types of crystals are fragile and will shatter, especially when hydrated, I decided to try a new technique this year. I opted to work them dry into the soil, along with a heavy application of 10-10-10 time release fertilizer. I did this under the planting zone with the rhizome, tuber or corm laid on top. The balance of the planting hole was filled with a soil compost mix then topped with compost or mulch to keep evaporation down. These are the results after a 4 to 4 1/2 month growing season.

Canna 'City of Portland' grew to over 8 feet as did Colocasia gigantea 'Thailand Giant Strain' in background.


Canna Tropicanna in ground and potted (received recommended dose of dry crystals).