Why fertilizer buildup

While grooming plants this afternoon I noticed something unusual (at least to me). I do not constant feed or wick, I really do not fertilize on a regular basis, yet a couple of my optimara plants have what I consider a salt build up on the base of the leaf stalk. It looks like brown rust.

They are potted in MG enriched mix (straight from the bag).

How can I rescue these plants? What would cause such a build up?

These plants are blooming but I am contemplating re-potting, adding from 1/4 to 1/3 perlite in mix as I was thinking of beginning a wicking program.

Any help appreciated. Opps wrong photo

This message was edited Jun 29, 2010 3:38 PM

This message was edited Jun 29, 2010 3:38 PM

Here is the photo that was intended showing build up around base of leaf.

You will have to play with a mixture to suit your needs where you are. Believe it or not, AVs don't like MG very well. Try to find a soiless mix or make your own with Pro-Mix BX perlite and vermiculite. I use 1-1-1 or equal portions. Everyone has their own little formula that works well for them and it also depends whether you wick or not and if you are going to wick, the size of the wick. You want them to stay moist and not wet. I am sure others will chime in with their expertise :) I hope this helps

Connie

For wicking a mix of 1 peat or soiless mix,1 vermiculite and 2 perlite works pretty well.It helps to put perlite in the bottom of the pot.If using Miracle Grow,I think you would need at least 50% perlite and no vermiculite.Besides the mix you are using,your water could be part of the problem.Be sure to let it sit at least 24 hours if it has a lot of chlorine.

I know some people do use Miracle Grow,but for me it stays too wet and seems to draw fungus knats.
Lynn

I agree - water - looks more like iron built up from water. Helene

Caused by your water I believe. There are lots of minerals in common tap water.

The iron in water sounds very probable, I notice perlite in pots that were only potted in last 2 weeks look red as if crusted with mineral. What do I do?

Don't worry about it too much. Most people have this issue.

collect rainwater - than this has some acid.- AV's show more of the disturbing conditions we live with than we realize.....

Agree with rainwater! I collect it for my carnivorous plants but also use it on my "regular" plants.

If rainwater isn't practical for you,try letting the water sit 24-48 hours and flush each pot out well to remove excess salts.You can also use drinking water sold in gallon jugs.

I have a lot of plants and often need 4 gallons or more when I water.I just let my water sit before using.I can't collect that much rainwater or afford that much bottled water.