RE: [Aroid-l] Ghost Speculation

Title: Message
I works that way for Orchid seeds and seedlings which are grown on sterile nutrient media containing fertilizer and sugars necessary for germination and growth as they have no endosperm to feed on. However, if you try feeding potted plants sugar solution in an unsterile environment you will more likely grow more ants and bacteria and mold than albino plants. Your "Ghost plants" will soon give up the Ghost and go to the big rainforest in the sky.
 
Denis
Silver Krome Gardens
-----Original Message-----
From: aroid-l-bounces@gizmoworks.com [mailto:aroid-l-bounces@gizmoworks.com] On Behalf Of ted.held@us.henkel.com
Sent: Monday, June 13, 2005 12:03 PM
To: Discussion of aroids
Subject: [Aroid-l] Ghost Speculation


Please allow a non-botanist to speculate on the "ghost" mystery.

If a plant is able to survive one or two seasons as a ghost by utilizing stored energy from bulbs or the seed package, does that not mean that starchy matter is dissolved by enzymes and such and drawn up into the plant in the form of sap? Assuming that is true, does it not follow that the same or similar materials could be absorbed by the bulb or roots (or foliar application, for that matter) from the soil mix? In other words, would it be possible to actually "feed" a plant like you would a cat or bird?

I know this sounds crazy. But parasitic plants tap into solubles from hosts all the time. And such a phenomenon might explain the facts as they have been presented, especially by Mr. Tyerman. And if it is true, what sorts of "food" might work?

I'd appreciate learned comment, even if it is derisive laughter.

Ted Held
A chemist pretending to be a botanist.
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