DS Echinodorus Tenellus (Chain Sword) Potted Plant

Sale price$7.98

This plant has been grown emersed but will easily transfer to a submerged environment by following the instructions below.

A.K.A. Helanthium Tenellum
Origin Worldwide
Appearance Carpeting plant with elongated green leaves that can turn to reddish-brown with higher amounts of lighting. 
Ease Beginner
Placement Foreground; carpeting plant; in Nano tanks, works well as a background plant
Light & CO2 Requirements Medium to high light; likes CO2 but not necessary
Water Parameters & Nutrients pH 6.0-8.0; likes fertilizer
Size 1"-3"; fast grower
Care

Has tender roots so best to keep it on sandy soil or very fine, rounded gravel.

 

How to Transfer Emersed-Grown Aquarium Plants to Submersion

When transferring emersed-grown plants (grown above water) to a submerged environment, follow these steps for a smooth transition:

  1. Emersed plants may not tolerate intense lighting at first. You will need to start with lower light & increase it gradually over a week or two.  Keep this in mind when placing your emersed-grown plants.
  2. Remove the plant from the pot & remove as much of the rock wool as possible.
  3. Before planting, gently rinse the plant in some aquarium water (outside of the aquarium) to remove any dirt or unwanted pests.
  4. Trim dead or weak leaves & prune any overly long roots. This will help the plant focus its energy on adapting to the new environment.
  5. Bury the roots in the substrate, leaving the base of the plant above the substrate. Avoid covering the stem too deep, as this can cause rot.

Best Practices:

Fertilize as needed:  Provide liquid fertilizers to support the plant's transition, especially in the early weeks.

Carbon dioxide (CO2): Introducing CO2 can help with growth, especially if the plant shows slow adaptation.

Maintain stable water parameters: Consistent temperature, pH & nutrient levels will help reduce stress on the plant.

Potential Issues & Solutions:

Melting leaves (leaves turn brown or transparent):  This is common as emersed-grown leaves adapt to submerged conditions. Trim off the melted leaves, and healthy new submerged leaves should grow in their place.

Yellowing or stunted growth: This could be due to nutrient deficiency. Check for proper levels of iron, potassium, and nitrogen. Adding a quality liquid fertilizer can resolve this.

Root rot (plant wilts or roots turn mushy): This happens if the plant is planted too deeply. Replant, ensuring the crown of the plant is above the substrate to allow for better aeration.