The Ultimate Alocasia Plant Feed Guide: Professional Formula for Spectacular Growth

Growing exceptional Alocasia specimens requires more than just water and light—it demands a sophisticated understanding of tropical plant nutrition. At The Alocasia Company, we've spent years perfecting our feeding formula through extensive testing on thousands of plants in our private nursery. This comprehensive guide reveals our professional-grade Alocasia plant feed formula and explains exactly why each component is essential for achieving those dramatic, oversized leaves and vibrant variegation that serious collectors crave.

Why Alocasia Need Specialized Plant Feed

Alocasia are heavy feeders with unique nutritional requirements that standard houseplant fertilizers simply cannot meet. As tropical aroids that naturally grow in nutrient-rich forest floors, these plants have evolved to expect a constant supply of diverse nutrients. In cultivation, especially when growing in semi-hydroponic systems or inert media, providing complete nutrition becomes absolutely critical.

The Problem with Generic Fertilizers

Most commercial houseplant fertilizers provide only basic NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) without the comprehensive micronutrient profile that Alocasia demand. This leads to common deficiencies that manifest as:

• Yellowing leaves (nitrogen or iron deficiency)
• Brown leaf edges (calcium or magnesium deficiency)
• Weak stems that cannot support large leaves (silica deficiency)
• Slow growth and small leaves (overall nutrient deficiency)
• Poor variegation expression in variegated forms
• Susceptibility to pests and diseases (weakened plant immunity)

Our formula addresses every one of these issues through a synergistic blend of six specialized components, each serving a specific purpose in Alocasia nutrition.

The Complete Formula: Six Components for Perfect Growth

Based on 10 litres of water, our tried and tested formula includes:

• Canna Hydro Vega A&B (15ml) - Base nutrients
• Canna Rhizotonic (25ml) - Root stimulator
• Cannazym (25ml) - Enzyme complex
• Superthrive (3ml) - Vitamin supplement
• Shogun CalMag (10ml) - Calcium and magnesium
• Mills Vitalize (2ml) - Silicic acid

Let's break down exactly what each component does and why it's irreplaceable in achieving professional results.

Component 1: Mills Vitalize - The Strength Builder

Purpose: Mono-silicic acid for cell wall fortification and stress resistance

Mills Vitalize provides stabilized silicic acid, a form of silicon that plants can actually absorb and utilize. This is arguably the most underrated component in Alocasia nutrition, yet it's absolutely transformative for plant quality.

Why Silica Matters for Alocasia

Silicon strengthens plant cell walls, creating physically stronger tissues that can support the massive leaves Alocasia are famous for. When adequately supplied with silica:

• Stems become significantly thicker and more rigid
• Leaves develop stronger structural integrity, reducing drooping
• Plants show dramatically improved pest resistance (thicker cell walls are harder for insects to penetrate)
• Disease resistance increases substantially
• Heat and drought stress tolerance improves
• Variegated sections become more stable and vibrant

For collectors growing mature Alocasia specimens with leaves exceeding 50cm, silica supplementation is the difference between plants that stand proud and those that constantly droop despite adequate watering.

The Science Behind Mono-Silicic Acid

Not all silica products are equal. Mills Vitalize uses mono-silicic acid (Si(OH)₄), the only form of silicon that plants can directly absorb. Many cheaper silica products use potassium silicate, which must first be converted by soil bacteria—a process that doesn't occur in hydroponic systems or sterile substrates.

Dosage in our formula: 2ml per 10 litres (0.2ml per litre)

Component 2: Canna Hydro Vega A&B - The Foundation

Purpose: Complete base nutrients providing all essential macro and micronutrients

Canna Hydro Vega A&B forms the nutritional foundation of our formula. This two-part nutrient system provides the complete spectrum of elements that Alocasia need for vegetative growth:

Primary Macronutrients (NPK)

• Nitrogen (N): Essential for chlorophyll production and the lush green growth Alocasia are known for. Particularly critical for green on green variegated forms.
• Phosphorus (P): Drives root development and energy transfer throughout the plant. Critical during active growth periods.
• Potassium (K): Regulates water uptake, strengthens cell walls, and improves overall plant vigor.

Secondary Macronutrients

• Calcium: Crucial for cell wall development and structure
• Magnesium: Central atom in chlorophyll molecules—without adequate magnesium, photosynthesis cannot occur
• Sulfur: Component of amino acids and proteins

Complete Micronutrient Profile

Hydro Vega provides iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, and molybdenum in chelated forms for maximum availability. These micronutrients serve as enzyme cofactors and are essential for countless metabolic processes.

Why Two-Part Nutrients?

The A&B formulation prevents precipitation. Certain nutrients would crystallize and become unavailable if mixed together in concentrated form. The two-part system ensures all nutrients remain in solution and available to your plants.

Dosage in our formula: 15ml total per 10 litres (7.5ml A + 7.5ml B per 10 litres, or 0.75ml of each per litre)

Component 3: Superthrive - The Vitamin Catalyst

Purpose: Vitamin B complex and kelp-based growth enhancers

Superthrive Plant Vitamin Nutrient Supplement is a legendary product in professional horticulture, developed by Dr. John A. Thomson and proven over decades of commercial use. This isn't a fertilizer—it's a vitamin-based catalyst that works synergistically with your nutrient program.

What Makes Superthrive Unique

Superthrive contains over 50 vitamins and hormones, with vitamin B1 (thiamine) as the key active ingredient. Thiamine is crucial for:

• Carbohydrate metabolism and energy production
• Root development and establishment
• Stress resistance during transplanting or environmental changes
• Recovery from pest damage or disease
• Supporting plants through dormancy transitions

The kelp extract in Superthrive provides natural growth hormones (cytokinins and auxins) plus trace minerals and amino acids not found in standard fertilizers.

When Superthrive Makes the Biggest Difference

We've observed the most dramatic benefits when:

• Establishing newly imported plants in our nursery
• Transplanting or up-potting specimens
• Recovering plants showing stress symptoms
• Supporting variegated Alocasia which have reduced photosynthetic capacity
• Pushing plants through winter dormancy with artificial lighting

For pink variegated Alocasia and aurea variegated specimens, the vitamin support from Superthrive appears to help maintain stable variegation expression across new growth.

Dosage in our formula: 3ml per 10 litres (0.3ml per litre)

Important note: A little goes a long way. Never exceed recommended dosages as vitamin B1 can inhibit growth at high concentrations.

Component 4: Shogun CalMag - The Secondary Macro Powerhouse

Purpose: Concentrated calcium and magnesium supplementation

Shogun CalMag addresses one of the most common deficiency issues in Alocasia cultivation—inadequate calcium and magnesium. These are considered "secondary" macronutrients, but there's nothing secondary about their importance.

Why Alocasia Are Calcium-Hungry

Calcium is immobile within plants, meaning it cannot be redistributed from old tissue to new growth. Every new leaf requires a fresh supply of calcium delivered through the transpiration stream. Alocasia, with their large, rapidly expanding leaves, have exceptionally high calcium demands.

Calcium deficiency symptoms:

• New leaves emerge deformed or with brown spots
• Leaf edges develop necrotic (dead) tissue
• Growth points die back
• Overall weak, floppy leaves

Calcium is also essential for cell wall structure, working synergistically with the silica from Mills Vitalize to create truly robust foliage.

The Magnesium Story

Magnesium forms the central atom of every chlorophyll molecule. Without adequate magnesium, plants literally cannot photosynthesize effectively. This is particularly critical for variegated specimens where reduced chlorophyll content already limits photosynthetic capacity.

Magnesium deficiency symptoms:

• Interveinal chlorosis (yellowing between leaf veins)
• Older leaves affected first (magnesium is mobile and gets pulled to new growth)
• Overall pale, washed-out appearance
• Stunted growth

For our albo variegated, pink variegated, and aurea varieties, maintaining adequate magnesium is non-negotiable for healthy green sections.

Why Additional CalMag?

While Hydro Vega contains some calcium and magnesium, it's rarely sufficient for the demands of fast-growing Alocasia, especially when using reverse osmosis water (which contains no minerals) or growing in inert media. Supplemental CalMag ensures plants never run short of these critical nutrients.

Dosage in our formula: 10ml per 10 litres (1ml per litre)

Component 5: Cannazym - The Root Zone Guardian

Purpose: Enzyme complex for breaking down dead roots and preventing disease

Cannazym contains a sophisticated blend of 12 different enzymes that serve as your root zone's cleanup crew. This component is absolutely essential for maintaining healthy roots in any growing system, but particularly critical in self-watering pots and hydroponic setups.

What Enzymes Do in the Root Zone

Plant roots constantly shed older cells and root hairs as they grow. In soil, a diverse microbial community breaks down this dead organic matter. In sterile or semi-sterile growing systems, this decomposition doesn't occur naturally, leading to:

• Accumulation of dead root tissue
• Pathogen proliferation (dead tissue is a breeding ground for disease)
• Reduced oxygen availability in the root zone
• Root rot and system failure

Cannazym's enzyme blend rapidly breaks down dead root material, converting it into simple sugars and minerals that the plant can immediately reabsorb. This process:

• Prevents pathogen establishment
• Recycles nutrients that would otherwise be locked up in dead tissue
• Keeps the root zone clean and oxygenated
• Stimulates beneficial microorganism activity
• Dramatically reduces root disease incidence

The Synergy with Rhizotonic

Cannazym works in perfect synergy with Rhizotonic (next component). While Cannazym breaks down old roots, Rhizotonic stimulates new root growth. Together, they create a constantly refreshing root system that can support explosive above-ground growth.

Dosage in our formula: 25ml per 10 litres (2.5ml per litre)

Component 6: Canna Rhizotonic - The Root Stimulator

Purpose: Algae-based root stimulator and stress reliever

Canna Rhizotonic completes our formula with targeted root stimulation and stress reduction. This algae-based additive contains natural hormones, vitamins, and compounds specifically selected to maximize root development and help plants cope with environmental stress.

Why Root Development Matters

Strong roots are the foundation of spectacular Alocasia growth. A robust root system:

• Provides better anchorage for large, heavy leaves
• Increases nutrient and water uptake capacity
• Enables faster growth rates
• Improves stress tolerance
• Supports heavier feeding without salt buildup issues

The Algae Advantage

Rhizotonic's seaweed base provides:

• Natural auxins: Plant hormones that stimulate root cell division and elongation
• Cytokinins: Promote root branching and side root development
• Vitamins and amino acids: Support overall plant metabolism
• Natural stress-relief compounds: Help plants cope with transplanting, environmental changes, or pest damage

When Rhizotonic Shines

We see the most dramatic benefits from Rhizotonic when:

• Establishing corms and juvenile plants
• Recovering plants from root damage or rot
• Transitioning plants between growing systems (soil to LECA, for example)
• Supporting plants through active growing periods when root expansion is rapid
• Maintaining mature specimens that need constant root replacement

The combination of Rhizotonic and Cannazym creates what we call our "root zone optimization system"—constantly stimulating new root growth while cleaning away the old.

Dosage in our formula: 25ml per 10 litres (2.5ml per litre)

Complete Feeding Schedule and Application Guidelines

Mixing the Formula

Always follow this order when mixing:

1. Fill container with 10 litres of water (room temperature)
2. Add Canna Hydro Vega A (7.5ml), stir thoroughly
3. Add Canna Hydro Vega B (7.5ml), stir thoroughly
4. Add Rhizotonic (25ml), stir
5. Add Cannazym (25ml), stir
6. Add Superthrive (3ml), stir
7. Add CalMag (10ml), stir
8. Add Vitalize (2ml), stir thoroughly
9. Check pH (should be around 5.8-6.2 for optimal nutrient availability)
10. Use immediately or within 24 hours

Never mix concentrated nutrients together before diluting. Always dilute in water first, and always add Hydro Vega A before B to prevent nutrient lockout.

Feeding Frequency

During active growth (spring through autumn):

• Feed with every watering for plants in inert media (LECA, pon, Lechuza PON)
• Feed every second watering for plants in soil-based substrates
• Feed weekly for plants in rich, organic substrates

During dormancy/slow growth (winter):

• Reduce feeding to once every 2-3 weeks
• Reduce concentration to 50% strength
• Stop feeding entirely if plant has dropped all leaves

Water Quality Matters

For best results, use:

• Reverse osmosis (RO) water, or
• Filtered water with low mineral content, or
• Rainwater

Tap water often contains excessive calcium, chlorine, and fluoride that can interfere with nutrient uptake and damage sensitive roots. If you must use tap water, let it stand for 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate.

Special Considerations for Variegated Alocasia

Variegated specimens have reduced chlorophyll and therefore reduced photosynthetic capacity. They benefit from:

• Stronger lighting to compensate for reduced photosynthesis (consider LED grow lights)
• Slightly higher feeding rates to support the energy demands of producing variegated tissue
• Extra attention to magnesium to maximize chlorophyll function in green sections
• Increased Superthrive during new leaf development to support variegation stability

Our pink variegated Alocasia and aurea specimens receive this modified feeding program in our nursery.

Understanding Nutrient Deficiencies

Even with a complete formula, deficiencies can still occur due to pH issues, root problems, or environmental stress. Here's how to identify and correct common deficiency symptoms:

Nitrogen Deficiency

Symptoms: Older leaves turn yellow, starting from tips. Overall pale appearance. Slow growth. Solution: Increase Hydro Vega concentration by 25%. Ensure adequate light for nutrient uptake.

Calcium Deficiency

Symptoms: New leaves emerge deformed, brown spots on young growth, leaf tip burn. Solution: Increase CalMag to 15ml per 10L. Ensure adequate water/transpiration. Check humidity levels.

Magnesium Deficiency

Symptoms: Interveinal chlorosis on older leaves (veins stay green, areas between turn yellow). Solution: Increase CalMag dosage. Consider foliar spray of Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) as emergency treatment.

Iron Deficiency

Symptoms: New leaves emerge yellow (interveinal chlorosis on young growth). Solution: Check pH—iron becomes unavailable above pH 6.5. Add chelated iron supplement if pH is correct.

The Science of Synergy: Why This Formula Works

Each component in our formula has been selected not just for its individual benefits, but for how it works with the other components:

• Vitalize + CalMag + Hydro Vega create exceptionally strong cell walls and tissues
• Rhizotonic + Cannazym optimize the root zone for maximum nutrient uptake
• Superthrive + complete base nutrients maximize metabolic efficiency
• Complete micronutrients + vitamins prevent any limiting factors in growth

This synergistic approach is why we see such dramatic results compared to using individual products alone. The whole truly is greater than the sum of its parts.

Beyond the Basic Formula: Optional Boosters

For collectors pushing for maximum growth and show-quality specimens, consider these additions:

Growth Technology Nitrozyme

A seaweed-based extract rich in natural growth hormones. Add at 5ml per 10L during peak growing periods to accelerate growth rates.

Clonex Mist

Particularly useful when propagating or establishing new plants. Provides rooting hormones and anti-stress compounds.

[Shogun Zenzym

Absolutely, Russ! Let me revise the entire article with UK spellings throughout. Here's the corrected version:

---

The Ultimate Alocasia Plant Feed Guide: Professional Formula for Spectacular Growth

Growing exceptional Alocasia specimens requires more than just water and light—it demands a sophisticated understanding of tropical plant nutrition. At The Alocasia Company, we've spent years perfecting our feeding formula through extensive testing on thousands of plants in our private nursery. This comprehensive guide reveals our professional-grade Alocasia plant feed formula and explains exactly why each component is essential for achieving those dramatic, oversised leaves and vibrant variegation that serious collectors crave.

Why Alocasia Need Specialised Plant Feed

Alocasia are heavy feeders with unique nutritional requirements that standard houseplant fertilisers simply cannot meet. As tropical aroids that naturally grow in nutrient-rich forest floors, these plants have evolved to expect a constant supply of diverse nutrients. In cultivation, especially when growing in semi-hydroponic systems or inert media, providing complete nutrition becomes absolutely critical.

The Problem with Generic Fertilisers

Most commercial houseplant fertilisers provide only basic NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) without the comprehensive micronutrient profile that Alocasia demand. This leads to common deficiencies that manifest as:

• Yellowing leaves (nitrogen or iron deficiency)
• Brown leaf edges (calcium or magnesium deficiency)
• Weak stems that cannot support large leaves (silica deficiency)
• Slow growth and small leaves (overall nutrient deficiency)
• Poor variegation expression in variegated forms
• Susceptibility to pests and diseases (weakened plant immunity)

Our formula addresses every one of these issues through a synergistic blend of six specialised components, each serving a specific purpose in Alocasia nutrition.

The Complete Formula: Six Components for Perfect Growth

Based on 10 litres of water, our tried and tested formula includes:

• Canna Hydro Vega A&B (15ml) - Base nutrients
• Canna Rhizotonic (25ml) - Root stimulator
• Cannazym (25ml) - Enzyme complex
• Superthrive (3ml) - Vitamin supplement
• Shogun CalMag (10ml) - Calcium and magnesium
• Mills Vitalize (2ml) - Silicic acid

Let's break down exactly what each component does and why it's irreplaceable in achieving professional results.

Component 1: Mills Vitalize - The Strength Builder

Purpose: Mono-silicic acid for cell wall fortification and stress resistance

Mills Vitalize provides stabilised silicic acid, a form of silicon that plants can actually absorb and utilise. This is arguably the most underrated component in Alocasia nutrition, yet it's absolutely transformative for plant quality.

Why Silica Matters for Alocasia

Silicon strengthens plant cell walls, creating physically stronger tissues that can support the massive leaves Alocasia are famous for. When adequately supplied with silica:

• Stems become significantly thicker and more rigid
• Leaves develop stronger structural integrity, reducing drooping
• Plants show dramatically improved pest resistance (thicker cell walls are harder for insects to penetrate)
• Disease resistance increases substantially
• Heat and drought stress tolerance improves
• Variegated sections become more stable and vibrant

For collectors growing mature Alocasia specimens with leaves exceeding 50cm, silica supplementation is the difference between plants that stand proud and those that constantly droop despite adequate watering.

The Science Behind Mono-Silicic Acid

Not all silica products are equal. Mills Vitalize uses mono-silicic acid (Si(OH)₄), the only form of silicon that plants can directly absorb. Many cheaper silica products use potassium silicate, which must first be converted by soil bacteria—a process that doesn't occur in hydroponic systems or sterile substrates.

Dosage in our formula: 2ml per 10 litres (0.2ml per litre)

Component 2: Canna Hydro Vega A&B - The Foundation

Purpose: Complete base nutrients providing all essential macro and micronutrients

Canna Hydro Vega A&B forms the nutritional foundation of our formula. This two-part nutrient system provides the complete spectrum of elements that Alocasia need for vegetative growth:

Primary Macronutrients (NPK)

• Nitrogen (N): Essential for chlorophyll production and the lush green growth Alocasia are known for. Particularly critical for green on green variegated forms.
• Phosphorus (P): Drives root development and energy transfer throughout the plant. Critical during active growth periods.
• Potassium (K): Regulates water uptake, strengthens cell walls, and improves overall plant vigour.

Secondary Macronutrients

• Calcium: Crucial for cell wall development and structure
• Magnesium: Central atom in chlorophyll molecules—without adequate magnesium, photosynthesis cannot occur
• Sulphur: Component of amino acids and proteins

Complete Micronutrient Profile

Hydro Vega provides iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, and molybdenum in chelated forms for maximum availability. These micronutrients serve as enzyme cofactors and are essential for countless metabolic processes.

Why Two-Part Nutrients?

The A&B formulation prevents precipitation. Certain nutrients would crystallise and become unavailable if mixed together in concentrated form. The two-part system ensures all nutrients remain in solution and available to your plants.

Dosage in our formula: 15ml total per 10 litres (7.5ml A + 7.5ml B per 10 litres, or 0.75ml of each per litre)

Component 3: Superthrive - The Vitamin Catalyst

Purpose: Vitamin B complex and kelp-based growth enhancers

Superthrive Plant Vitamin Nutrient Supplement is a legendary product in professional horticulture, developed by Dr. John A. Thomson and proven over decades of commercial use. This isn't a fertiliser—it's a vitamin-based catalyst that works synergistically with your nutrient programme.

What Makes Superthrive Unique

Superthrive contains over 50 vitamins and hormones, with vitamin B1 (thiamine) as the key active ingredient. Thiamine is crucial for:

• Carbohydrate metabolism and energy production
• Root development and establishment
• Stress resistance during transplanting or environmental changes
• Recovery from pest damage or disease
• Supporting plants through dormancy transitions

The kelp extract in Superthrive provides natural growth hormones (cytokinins and auxins) plus trace minerals and amino acids not found in standard fertilisers.

When Superthrive Makes the Biggest Difference

We've observed the most dramatic benefits when:

• Establishing newly imported plants in our nursery
• Transplanting or up-potting specimens
• Recovering plants showing stress symptoms
• Supporting variegated Alocasia which have reduced photosynthetic capacity
• Pushing plants through winter dormancy with artificial lighting

For pink variegated Alocasia and aurea variegated specimens, the vitamin support from Superthrive appears to help maintain stable variegation expression across new growth.

Dosage in our formula: 3ml per 10 litres (0.3ml per litre)

Important note: A little goes a long way. Never exceed recommended dosages as vitamin B1 can inhibit growth at high concentrations.

Component 4: Shogun CalMag - The Secondary Macro Powerhouse

Purpose: Concentrated calcium and magnesium supplementation

Shogun CalMag addresses one of the most common deficiency issues in Alocasia cultivation—inadequate calcium and magnesium. These are considered "secondary" macronutrients, but there's nothing secondary about their importance.

Why Alocasia Are Calcium-Hungry

Calcium is immobile within plants, meaning it cannot be redistributed from old tissue to new growth. Every new leaf requires a fresh supply of calcium delivered through the transpiration stream. Alocasia, with their large, rapidly expanding leaves, have exceptionally high calcium demands.

Calcium deficiency symptoms:

• New leaves emerge deformed or with brown spots
• Leaf edges develop necrotic (dead) tissue
• Growth points die back
• Overall weak, floppy leaves

Calcium is also essential for cell wall structure, working synergistically with the silica from Mills Vitalize to create truly robust foliage.

The Magnesium Story

Magnesium forms the central atom of every chlorophyll molecule. Without adequate magnesium, plants literally cannot photosynthesise effectively. This is particularly critical for variegated specimens where reduced chlorophyll content already limits photosynthetic capacity.

Magnesium deficiency symptoms:

• Interveinal chlorosis (yellowing between leaf veins)
• Older leaves affected first (magnesium is mobile and gets pulled to new growth)
• Overall pale, washed-out appearance
• Stunted growth

For our albo variegated, pink variegated, and aurea varieties, maintaining adequate magnesium is non-negotiable for healthy green sections.

Why Additional CalMag?

Whilst Hydro Vega contains some calcium and magnesium, it's rarely sufficient for the demands of fast-growing Alocasia, especially when using reverse osmosis water (which contains no minerals) or growing in inert media. Supplemental CalMag ensures plants never run short of these critical nutrients.

Dosage in our formula: 10ml per 10 litres (1ml per litre)

Component 5: Cannazym - The Root Zone Guardian

Purpose: Enzyme complex for breaking down dead roots and preventing disease

Cannazym contains a sophisticated blend of 12 different enzymes that serve as your root zone's cleanup crew. This component is absolutely essential for maintaining healthy roots in any growing system, but particularly critical in self-watering pots and hydroponic setups.

What Enzymes Do in the Root Zone

Plant roots constantly shed older cells and root hairs as they grow. In soil, a diverse microbial community breaks down this dead organic matter. In sterile or semi-sterile growing systems, this decomposition doesn't occur naturally, leading to:

• Accumulation of dead root tissue
• Pathogen proliferation (dead tissue is a breeding ground for disease)
• Reduced oxygen availability in the root zone
• Root rot and system failure

Cannazym's enzyme blend rapidly breaks down dead root material, converting it into simple sugars and minerals that the plant can immediately reabsorb. This process:

• Prevents pathogen establishment
• Recycles nutrients that would otherwise be locked up in dead tissue
• Keeps the root zone clean and oxygenated
• Stimulates beneficial microorganism activity
• Dramatically reduces root disease incidence

The Synergy with Rhizotonic

Cannazym works in perfect synergy with Rhizotonic (next component). Whilst Cannazym breaks down old roots, Rhizotonic stimulates new root growth. Together, they create a constantly refreshing root system that can support explosive above-ground growth.

Dosage in our formula: 25ml per 10 litres (2.5ml per litre)

Component 6: Canna Rhizotonic - The Root Stimulator

Purpose: Algae-based root stimulator and stress reliever

Canna Rhizotonic completes our formula with targeted root stimulation and stress reduction. This algae-based additive contains natural hormones, vitamins, and compounds specifically selected to maximise root development and help plants cope with environmental stress.

Why Root Development Matters

Strong roots are the foundation of spectacular Alocasia growth. A robust root system:

• Provides better anchorage for large, heavy leaves
• Increases nutrient and water uptake capacity
• Enables faster growth rates
• Improves stress tolerance
• Supports heavier feeding without salt buildup issues

The Algae Advantage

Rhizotonic's seaweed base provides:

• Natural auxins: Plant hormones that stimulate root cell division and elongation
• Cytokinins: Promote root branching and side root development
• Vitamins and amino acids: Support overall plant metabolism
• Natural stress-relief compounds: Help plants cope with transplanting, environmental changes, or pest damage

When Rhizotonic Shines

We see the most dramatic benefits from Rhizotonic when:

• Establishing corms and juvenile plants
• Recovering plants from root damage or rot
• Transitioning plants between growing systems (soil to LECA, for example)
• Supporting plants through active growing periods when root expansion is rapid
• Maintaining mature specimens that need constant root replacement

The combination of Rhizotonic and Cannazym creates what we call our "root zone optimisation system"—constantly stimulating new root growth whilst cleaning away the old.

Dosage in our formula: 25ml per 10 litres (2.5ml per litre)

Complete Feeding Schedule and Application Guidelines

Mixing the Formula

Always follow this order when mixing:

1. Fill container with 10 litres of water (room temperature)
2. Add Canna Hydro Vega A (7.5ml), stir thoroughly
3. Add Canna Hydro Vega B (7.5ml), stir thoroughly
4. Add Rhizotonic (25ml), stir
5. Add Cannazym (25ml), stir
6. Add Superthrive (3ml), stir
7. Add CalMag (10ml), stir
8. Add Vitalize (2ml), stir thoroughly
9. Check pH (should be around 5.8-6.2 for optimal nutrient availability)
10. Use immediately or within 24 hours

Never mix concentrated nutrients together before diluting. Always dilute in water first, and always add Hydro Vega A before B to prevent nutrient lockout.

Feeding Frequency

During active growth (spring through autumn):

• Feed with every watering for plants in inert media (LECA, pon, Lechuza PON)
• Feed every second watering for plants in soil-based substrates
• Feed weekly for plants in rich, organic substrates

During dormancy/slow growth (winter):

• Reduce feeding to once every 2-3 weeks
• Reduce concentration to 50% strength
• Stop feeding entirely if plant has dropped all leaves

Water Quality Matters

For best results, use:

• Reverse osmosis (RO) water, or
• Filtered water with low mineral content, or
• Rainwater

Tap water often contains excessive calcium, chlorine, and fluoride that can interfere with nutrient uptake and damage sensitive roots. If you must use tap water, let it stand for 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate.

Special Considerations for Variegated Alocasia

Variegated specimens have reduced chlorophyll and therefore reduced photosynthetic capacity. They benefit from:

• Stronger lighting to compensate for reduced photosynthesis (consider LED grow lights)
• Slightly higher feeding rates to support the energy demands of producing variegated tissue
• Extra attention to magnesium to maximise chlorophyll function in green sections
• Increased Superthrive during new leaf development to support variegation stability

Our pink variegated Alocasia and aurea specimens receive this modified feeding programme in our nursery.

Understanding Nutrient Deficiencies

Even with a complete formula, deficiencies can still occur due to pH issues, root problems, or environmental stress. Here's how to identify and correct common deficiency symptoms:

Nitrogen Deficiency

Symptoms: Older leaves turn yellow, starting from tips. Overall pale appearance. Slow growth. Solution: Increase Hydro Vega concentration by 25%. Ensure adequate light for nutrient uptake.

Calcium Deficiency

Symptoms: New leaves emerge deformed, brown spots on young growth, leaf tip burn. Solution: Increase CalMag to 15ml per 10L. Ensure adequate water/transpiration. Check humidity levels.

Magnesium Deficiency

Symptoms: Interveinal chlorosis on older leaves (veins stay green, areas between turn yellow). Solution: Increase CalMag dosage. Consider foliar spray of Epsom salts (magnesium sulphate) as emergency treatment.

Iron Deficiency

Symptoms: New leaves emerge yellow (interveinal chlorosis on young growth). Solution: Check pH—iron becomes unavailable above pH 6.5. Add chelated iron supplement if pH is correct.

The Science of Synergy: Why This Formula Works

Each component in our formula has been selected not just for its individual benefits, but for how it works with the other components:

• Vitalize + CalMag + Hydro Vega create exceptionally strong cell walls and tissues
• Rhizotonic + Cannazym optimise the root zone for maximum nutrient uptake
• Superthrive + complete base nutrients maximise metabolic efficiency
• Complete micronutrients + vitamins prevent any limiting factors in growth

This synergistic approach is why we see such dramatic results compared to using individual products alone. The whole truly is greater than the sum of its parts.

Beyond the Basic Formula: Optional Boosters

For collectors pushing for maximum growth and show-quality specimens, consider these additions from our boosters collection:

Growth Technology Nitrozyme

A seaweed-based extract rich in natural growth hormones. Add at 5ml per 10L during peak growing periods to accelerate growth rates and enhance overall plant vigour.

Clonex Mist

Particularly useful when propagating or establishing new plants. Provides rooting hormones and anti-stress compounds that help cuttings and young plants establish quickly.

Shogun Zenzym

An alternative enzyme product that can be substituted for Cannazym. Contains a different enzyme blend that some growers prefer for specific growing systems.

Browse our complete nutrients collection for additional supplements that can enhance your feeding programme.

Growing Systems and Feeding Adaptations

Our formula works across all growing systems, but application may vary:

Semi-Hydroponic (LECA, Pon, Perlite)

• Feed with every watering at full strength
• Monitor EC/TDS levels to prevent salt buildup
• Flush system monthly with plain water
• Consider our Lechuza PON substrate for superior results

Self-Watering Pots

• Add nutrients to reservoir at full strength
• Change reservoir solution every 2-3 weeks
• Our self-watering pot collection works perfectly with this formula
• Lechuza self-watering systems are specifically designed for nutrient solution use

Traditional Soil

• Feed every second watering at full strength
• Allow slight drying between waterings
• Flush monthly to prevent salt accumulation
• Consider transitioning to substrate-based systems for better control

Organic Substrates

• Feed weekly at full strength
• Organic matter provides some nutrients, reducing feeding frequency
• Monitor plant response and adjust accordingly

Seasonal Feeding Strategies

Spring (March-May)

Plants emerge from dormancy and enter rapid growth. This is when feeding makes the biggest impact:

• Start feeding at half strength initially
• Increase to full strength within 2-3 weeks
• Feed consistently with every watering
• Watch for explosive new leaf production

Summer (June-August)

Peak growing season demands maximum nutrition:

• Feed at full strength with every watering
• Consider adding boosters for show-quality growth
• Monitor for nutrient deficiencies in variegated forms
• Increase CalMag if growing in high temperatures

Autumn (September-November)

Growth begins to slow as daylight decreases:

• Continue full-strength feeding through early autumn
• Reduce to 75% strength by late autumn
• Prepare plants for dormancy transition
• Focus on root development with Rhizotonic

Winter (December-February)

Most Alocasia enter partial or full dormancy:

• Reduce feeding to 50% strength
• Feed once every 2-3 weeks only
• Stop feeding entirely if leaves drop
• Restart feeding when new growth appears in spring

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Nutrient Burn

Symptoms: Brown, crispy leaf edges. Yellowing leaves despite feeding. Cause: Excessive fertiliser concentration or salt buildup. Solution: Flush growing medium with plain water. Reduce feeding concentration by 50% temporarily. Check EC/TDS levels.

Stunted Growth Despite Feeding

Symptoms: Plant looks healthy but grows very slowly. Possible causes:

• Inadequate light (most common)—consider LED grow lights
• Root issues—check for rot or pest damage
• Temperature too low—Alocasia need warmth to utilise nutrients
• pH too high or low—check and adjust

Variegation Fading

Symptoms: New leaves less variegated than previous growth. Possible causes:

• Insufficient light—variegation requires strong lighting
• Magnesium deficiency—increase CalMag
• Stress—ensure stable growing conditions
• Genetics—some variation is normal

The Investment: Building Your Nutrient Arsenal

Our complete feeding system represents a significant but worthwhile investment. Here's what you'll need:

Essential Components:

• Superthrive Plant Vitamin Supplement
• Canna Hydro Vega A&B
• Canna Rhizotonic
• Cannazym
• Shogun CalMag
• Mills Vitalize

Optional Additions:

• Growth Technology Nitrozyme
• Clonex Mist
• Shogun Zenzym
• Additional nutrients and boosters

Whilst the initial cost may seem high, these products last months even with regular use, and the results in plant quality make the investment worthwhile for serious collectors.

Real Results: What to Expect

When following our formula correctly, you should observe:

Within 2 weeks:

• Increased leaf gloss and vibrancy
• Stronger, more upright stems
• New root growth visible (in transparent containers)

Within 1 month:

• Noticeably larger new leaves
• Faster leaf production
• Improved variegation stability in variegated forms
• Overall more robust plant structure

Within 3 months:

• Dramatic size increase
• Show-quality foliage
• Strong resistance to pests and diseases
• Plants pushing into mature specimen category

Beyond Feeding: Complete Alocasia Care

Nutrition is just one component of exceptional Alocasia cultivation. For complete success, ensure you're also providing:

Optimal Growing Environment:

• 60%+ humidity
• Bright indirect light or quality LED grow lights
• Temperatures of 18-27°C
• Good air circulation

Quality Growing Systems:

• Self-watering pots for consistent moisture
• Premium substrates for optimal root health
• Lechuza systems for professional results

Preventative Care:

• Regular pest control monitoring
• Proper plant care practices
• Appropriate container sizing

Building Your Collection with Proper Nutrition

Whether you're starting with corms, juvenile plants, or investing in mature specimens, proper nutrition is essential from day one.

Our feeding formula supports every stage of Alocasia development:

Corm Establishment: Focus on Rhizotonic and Superthrive to encourage rapid root development. Once leaves emerge, introduce the full formula at 50% strength initially.

Juvenile Growth: Full-strength formula with every watering pushes juvenile plants to maturity faster whilst building strong structure for future size.

Mature Maintenance: Consistent feeding maintains specimen quality and supports the ongoing production of those massive, dramatic leaves that make mature Alocasia so spectacular.

Variegated Specimens: Our pink variegated, aurea, albo, and green on green varieties all thrive on this formula with the variegated-specific modifications mentioned earlier.

Sourcing Your Nutrients in the UK

As a UK-based specialist, we understand the importance of reliable, domestic suppliers. Most of the products in our formula are readily available through UK hydroponic suppliers, though we stock Superthrive and other key supplements directly for your convenience.

UK growers benefit from:

• No import delays or customs issues
• Proper UK product labelling and support
• Suitable formulations for UK water conditions
• Local customer service and advice

The Ultimate Alocasia Feed Bundle

For maximum convenience, we offer our Ultimate Alocasia Feed Formula bundle that includes all six essential components in appropriate sizes. This bundle ensures you have everything needed to implement our professional feeding programme immediately.

Educational Resources

Deepen your understanding of Alocasia cultivation with our comprehensive guides:

• Complete Guide to Alocasia Variegation Types
• The Mystery of Pink Variegation in Alocasia
• Aurea Variegation in Alocasia
• Plant Life Blog - Ongoing cultivation guides and updates

Conclusion: The Foundation of Excellence

Exceptional Alocasia specimens don't happen by accident—they're the result of comprehensive care that begins with proper nutrition. Our six-component formula provides everything these demanding plants need to achieve their full genetic potential, from robust root systems to spectacular foliage.

Whether you're growing standard green varieties, rare variegated forms, or pushing for show-quality specimens, this feeding programme delivers consistent, professional results.

Start with quality plants from our Alocasia collection, provide optimal growing conditions, and fuel growth with our proven plant feed formula. The results will speak for themselves.

---

Questions about implementing our feeding formula or need personalised advice for your collection? Contact our team for expert guidance from specialists who use this exact formula daily on thousands of plants in our UK-based private nursery.