bananimal

Nikos,

I had to replace my pitogo also. I got it beginning of this year and potted it for 3 months. It grew just as well as the other 4 types bought at the same time. Put it in the ground in April and it grew, still looked OK - for 6 weeks. Then each new leaf got smaller and smaller. Pulled it out and repotted it. Corm rotted away and have yet to see if pups will form.

Got a replacement - a 5 foot pup cut off the parent and its' new leaves are huuuuuuge. And very green.

My conclusions are these ---------- I think it is a "weak" type like the reds. If I had kept it potted and put it in the ground in warmer weather it might have made it. Your picture tells me you have either a serious pH issue and/or you need to check your fertilizer. And especially rate of application.

My starter collection is 11 different types. I use a custom fertilizer blend of 6-2-12 with minors. And especially important - I apply fert monthly. Up to 3 pounds when the plants are bigger and show real vigor. I can't believe my dwarf orinoco and goldfinger. At eight feet now the leaves are huge, very green and thick. I also dump a 20 lb bag of composted cow manure on the mat every 3 months and alternate with mushroom compost. Compost whacks nematodes.

I'll post photos to my gallery as soon as I can.

Dan, a.k.a. bananimal