DS Ludwigia Palustris - Potted Plant
This plant has been grown emersed but will easily transfer to a submerged environment by following the instructions below.
| A.K.A. | Narrow Leaf Ludwigia, Marsh Seedbox, Common Water Primrose, Hampshire Purslane, Water Purslane |
| Origin | Can be found growing worldwide |
| Appearance | Bright green stem plant with small & compact leaf growth; considered a carpeting plant. |
| Ease | Beginner |
| Placement | Can be used in the foreground or background depending on aquarium size & conditions. Provides a great contrast against darker green or red plants with larger textures. |
| Light & CO2 Requirements | Moderate to Strong Light, Loves CO2 but can grow fine without it. |
| Water Parameters & Nutrients | Liquid Fertilizer |
| Size & Growth | 2-5" - Grows horizontally - Moderate to fast growth rate (especially with CO2) - Regular pruning will achieve & full & bushy appearance |
| Care |
Tends to grow rapidly once established, requiring regular trimming to maintain its shape & avoid overcrowding. When pruning, cut the stems back as much as needed, as new shoots will quickly branch out. Repeating this process will lead to a dense cluster of stems that will need periodic thinning. To propagate, replant the trimmed stems. The plant also spreads naturally through creeping stems that form roots. |
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:
- 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.
- Remove the plant from the pot & remove as much of the rock wool as possible.
- Before planting, gently rinse the plant in some aquarium water (outside of the aquarium) to remove any dirt or unwanted pests.
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Trim dead or weak leaves & prune any overly long roots. This will help the plant focus its energy on adapting to the new environment.
- 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.