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Tropical companions

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Posted by lariann z10 FL (My Page) on
Mon, Aug 13, 07 at 12:59

I've been doing an informal trial using Nephrolepis biserrata "Macho Fern" as a companion for Alocasia robusta, and the results are intriguing. While those who really want to grow an Alocasia robusta have lamented about how rapidly they seem to die off for no apparent reason, this trial may provide a key to growing this plant, as well as being a good example of why companion planting is important.

A link to my results is below.

LariAnn Garner
Aroidia Research

Here is a link that might be useful: Alocasia robusta - Nephrolepis Fern Trial

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RE: Tropical companions

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Have you any indications as to whether a fern/Alocasia combination would work in cooler climates?

Is it just Nephrolepsis - or would other species also provide protection?
Asplenium, perhaps?

And for the Colocasias with thicker leaves more than the 'filmy' leaves of the tender tropicals..

TIA

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RE: Tropical companions

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The use of the ferns with Alocasia in cooler climates is something to be studied. Of course, I can't do it where I am because the weather is warm here most of the time.

I started this study with Nephrolepis, but have since found out that other ferns are in association with A. robusta in habitat. Two of them are in the genera Athyrium and Diplazium. I intend to begin studying their association with Alocasia as well. These two genera have many species that thrive in cooler climates as well, so that is a fertile area for this type of study.

I cannot comment on Colocasia, as I have not worked with the genus, but I would surmise that Colocasia would be a good one to work with in terms of the cooler growing fern species.

LariAnn
Aroidia Research

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RE: Tropical companions

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Thanks for the lead LariAnn. I have some moveable Japanese Athyriums and a couple of aroids to observe...They're each just coming back after winter.

I enjoyed my visit to your webpages, too. Fascinating, and highly useful.

 
 

 

 


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