🌿 NPG ALOCASIA FORMULA - Premium Pon Semi-Hydro Mix

NPG Alocasia Formula is our purpose-built semi-hydro blend designed specifically for Alocasia and other moisture-sensitive plants.

Built around a refined pon base and enhanced with organic structure, this mix delivers the balance Alocasia need — consistent moisture, high oxygen availability, and stable root conditions.

This is the system we use across our own Alocasia collection — continuously refined to support strong roots, consistent growth, and long-term performance.

The Photos of the Alocasia are a side-by-side look at the difference our NPG Alocasia Formula can make.

The Alocasia on the left were grown in NPG Alocasia Formula, while the plants on the right were grown in traditional pon.

All plants were the same size when transplanted, kept in the same conditions and received the same nutrients thus making this a clear comparison of growth performance over time.

WHY WE MADE IT

Pon already works — we’ve used it successfully ourselves, just like many others.

But as a fully inert medium, it relies entirely on fertiliser and lacks the biological support needed for optimal root health over time.

We wanted to build on what works and take it further — while also making care even easier in normal household conditions.

So we developed a system that:

• Maintains consistent moisture without staying waterlogged
• Supports strong root development in semi-hydro setups
• Reduces transplant shock and root stress
• Works reliably in self-watering pots and controlled environments
• Supports mycorrhizal colonisation for stronger roots and improved corm production

KEY FEATURES

• Semi-hydro performance with improved moisture consistency
• High oxygen availability at the root zone
• Stable structure that won’t break down over time
• Designed for self-watering pots and reservoir systems
• Enhanced with organic components to support microbial life
• Encourages mycorrhizal activity for improved root growth and corm development

The result is a more stable, forgiving system for Alocasia — with stronger root systems and more consistent growth.

BEST SUITED FOR

• Alocasia (all varieties)
• Sensitive or high-value plants
• Plants transitioning from soil to semi-hydro
• Collectors wanting more consistency and control

WHAT’S INSIDE — AND WHY

This is a fully pre-blended mix — no layering or setup required.

Each component plays a role:

• Pon (pumice, lava rock, zeolite) – core mineral base providing drainage, aeration and nutrient buffering
• Chunky Pumice – increases airflow and structural stability
• Fern Fibre – supports microbial colonisation and creates a natural root interface
• Orchid Bark – adds structure, air pockets, and supports beneficial biology
• Mykos (mycorrhizae) – supports root colonisation, nutrient uptake, and corm development

By introducing organic components into an otherwise inert system, we create surfaces and microhabitats where beneficial microbes can establish and persist — rather than being flushed through.

HOW IT WORKS

The mineral base holds water in micro-reservoirs while maintaining large air pockets.

Organic components create a bridge between inert media and living biology — allowing beneficial microbes to interact with the root system.

This also improves the distribution and absorption of nutrients throughout the root zone.

This gives roots:

• Consistent access to moisture
• High oxygen availability
• Improved nutrient uptake and distribution
• Biological support for growth and resilience

WATERING & SETUP

Best used in:

• Self-watering pots
• Reservoir systems
• Semi-hydro setups

Keep a small reservoir at the base — do not fully submerge the mix.

Allow slight dry-back between top-ups depending on environment.

COMPATIBLE FERTILISERS - RECOMMENDED OPTIONS

NPG Alocasia Formula is a semi-hydro system built on a mineral base with added biological support — but it is not a nutrient-rich medium.

We recommend using a complete, low-salt fertiliser at reduced strength with regular watering. Consistency is key in semi-hydro systems.

The goal is steady, controlled feeding — supporting the plant without overwhelming the root zone.

Growth Technology – Foliage Focus

Our primary recommendation for ongoing feeding.
Designed for low-salt, controlled nutrient delivery and performs exceptionally well in semi-hydro and inert media.

Use at ¼–½ strength with regular watering.

Growth Technology – Root Zone

Ideal for short-term use during:

• Transition into pon
• Post-repot recovery
• Tissue culture establishment

Supports root development and recovery. Not intended for long-term use.

NurtureSystem – PowerGrow No.1

Suitable as a secondary feeding option.

Use at ¼ strength every 2–3 waterings.
Slightly higher salt levels than Foliage Focus, so reduced strength is important.

NurtureSystem – Seaweed / Kelp

A non-nutrient support additive.

Useful for:

• Stress recovery
• Root stimulation
• Post-shipping plants

Apply every 4–6 weeks as a soil drench or foliar spray.

FEEDING APPROACH

• Feed lightly and consistently
• Use reduced strength rather than heavy doses
• Avoid high-salt or aggressive fertilisers
• Maintain stability rather than pushing rapid growth

A balanced approach will result in stronger roots, more consistent growth, and better long-term plant health.

WHY THIS WORKS FOR ALOCASIA

Alocasia thrive when roots have access to both moisture and oxygen at the same time.

Traditional soil can stay too wet or too dry.
Standard pon lacks biological support.

This formula combines both — delivering semi-hydro performance while actively supporting root systems through beneficial biology.

THE NPG APPROACH

We don’t overcomplicate things — we refine what works.

NPG Alocasia Formula is built from real use, real results, and a focus on plant health over hype.

If you need help transitioning your plants or setting up semi-hydro, just reach out.