A trip to an Asian market, based on a “hot tip” that cheap water plants could be found, instead became an enlightening learning opportunity about the Asian culture, a growing segment of our Denver population. A number of plants to grow, were found, too!
I didn’t embark on the adventure alone; Mary Mirgon accompanied me to help identify the “raw elements” that might grow into plants for the water garden.
We were both surprised to see the numerous foods and drinks derived from water plants each of us had grown at one time or another.
Canned Pennywort Drink was a discovery that left us guessing at the possible taste sensation. A jar of spicy, pickled vegetables included both Chinese water chestnut and lotus root.
The produce section was filled with many unfamiliar fruits, vegetables and herbs. Signage was all in Vietnamese, making it a guessing game. Careful examination of items provided a few clues to the identity of
the plant -the shape of a leaf, type of stem (square, solid, hollow) and rubbing the leaf between the fingers to obtain a whiff of its aroma all provided some help. Herb cuttings were scrutinized to see if they could be grown. Each was checked for roots along the stem at leaf nodes. Several plants were selected based on this criteria.
The expense to purchase the items was minimal. Taro was $2 per pound, which average about 15 rhizomes. The Water Chestnuts were a little more expensive, $3 per pound. The Water Chestnuts are available
only seasonally, in our very early spring. All the herbs were packaged in small quantities and averaged $1.50 per bag.
To grow, herb cuttings were put in water and placed in a bright location near a window. They were totally submerged for rooting.
Rhizomes and corms were placed in water not quite covering their tops. These were also placed in bright light.
Cuttings showed root growth within a week. It took more than two weeks for roots to appear on the Taro and Water Chestnut. Water had to be changed daily on these two items to eliminate bacteria and to keep them from rotting. When plants showed good top growth and a healthy root, they were potted and set in water to continue growth.
The Rice paddy herb was an exciting new discovery. It has a dainty
purple flower with a yellowish center that appears all along
the stem from where each leaf is attached. It grows partially submerged with emergent stems.
Lemon grass is one of the most versatile plants; it will grow in a moist environment or in water. It provides a nice center focal point for a container garden.
Probably the most exciting thing about the whole adventure was not the cheap cost of plants, but rather the knowledge that throughout the garden there are plants to munch on while you work.
July 2002 Newsletter