Overwintering Water Hyacinths: Container & Care

Wants to overwinter water hyacinths in metal pressure cooker pot. Asks if metal harms plants. Follow-up: plants declining in 5-gal buckets with dechlorinated water, no soil. Should add potting medium?

Metal Container = Fine

No toxicity risk. 5-gal bucket per 2 plants is adequate.

Why Plants Are Failing

1. Chloramine ≠ Chlorine. Most municipalities use chloramine (Cl+NH₃ bond)—doesn't evaporate. Needs dechlorinator (sodium thiosulfate).
2. Stagnant water/air. Add tiny air pump or circulator.
3. No soil needed. Hyacinths are free-floating; roots absorb nutrients from water.
4. Temperature: Tropical plants—need >65°F, bright light.

Fix

• Use dechlorinator (not aging) for tap water.
• Add small fountain pump for circulation.
• Liquid fertilizer weekly.
• Bright window or grow light.

They'll rebound with proper water chemistry and movement.