Click on the photo for a larger view on Flickr.
This tabletop plant is a Dracaena Janet Craig ‘Compacta’. It is an excellent low light tolerant plant (as low as a 25-50 foot-candle range similar to Pothos). It uses very little water, as you will discover for yourself if you use the methods outlined here.
The plant was made up from three 4” plants (like this one) which are growing in an inexpensive clear plastic basket liner. They are commonly available from home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s.
To facilitate wicking action, use a hot poker to make a series of holes around the bottom near the edge and some in the middle of the basket liner. These are not for drainage but rather for water to rise by capillary action from the bottom.
Note that the soil surface is covered with decorative polished stones. There is no need for finger poking. When you lift the plant in its basket liner you can clearly see the status of the soil and root system.
An ‘aqua pad’ or pad of polyester batting material will facilitate the start of capillary action. This simple wicking method does not require a reservoir and there will be no root rot if you measure the water and add only what the plant needs. I call this watering in the zone.
You will not need a saucer. The decorative ceramic bowl has no drain holes. Bowls like this are widely available and sold as housewares rather than planters. Shop for them in stores like T.J. Maxx, Marshall’s, Ross Dress for Less, Bed, Bath & Beyond and Target among others.
Hi!
Can you suggest some more low sunlight plants that can be grown in a mini garden patch
Posted by: Prakash | September 18, 2012 at 11:33 PM