Debby. I think this is really interesting. I have no idea why your plants had such a reaction. I suggest you post it in another forum. The Exchange Forum has a propagation section that has alot of activity at this point in time. It also has some very knowledgeble members that just might know the answer. I'm wondering if the vodka breaks down into a certain kind of 'sugar'? I think it is made from potatoes, and maybe the potato starch is entirely broken down into one of the sugars, or some kind of enzyme? I know that adding a touch of vodka is sometimes recommended for use in vases with fresh flowers to prolong their life. If you find out, please post the answer on the Botany forum, or email me at: Msturtlesoup@aol.com. Thanks, Sam

i was wondering how much you put into your gallon?? i read jerry bakers book and i know that he recommended putting vodka i believe in flowering plants, or maybe it was bourban. LOL i believe its the sugar. and also the alcohol that disinfects them also. i'll tell ya, in the early spring i feed my roses very thin mashed potatoes or watery mashed potatoes, and they grow so beautifully!! i do the same with banana's, banana juice!! they love it! :'))

I normally use a drop or two of bleach to the water my cut flowers are in. The same goes for plant cuttings. The reason for this is that alcohol(Vodka) or bleach kill bacteria that would normally clog up the vascular system/tissues. Thus impeding the up take of water. 100 Proof Vodka is approximately 50% alcohol.
Mariann