Nate McFin

Hi there...
Well now I have done it! I turned the lights on in my aquarium this morning to find my sword plant floating. I was trying to replant the thing and its main root broke off. It does still have roots on the bottom but not the largest root. 2 Questions...
1. Did I just doom this plant?? Should I remove it or just watch it?
2. If I didn't doom the plant should I leave the main root in the tank (it doesn't have any leaves attached anymore) Will it sprout new leaves?
Tank is currently cycling without fish if it makes a difference.
Thanks
-Nate-

lew2000

Nathan Allen, that portion of the plant is actually a rhizome or tuber and is used for storage of nutrients for the plant. The plant with out the tuber should continue to grow and the tuber/rhizome can be planted to grow. I have had this happen to me and it's not uncommon.

Nate McFin

Thank you thank you!!
I was hoping that would be the case. How did you replant the rhizome...covered or partially?
-Nate-

lew2000

With the rhizome i planted it covered with the top slightly out of the substrate; 1/8". I then used a toothpick with a painted end (non-toxic of course) so i knew where i planted it and didn't disturb it.

Nate McFin

Just a few days later and I am already beginning to see new growth from the Rhizome! The plant it came from seems just as healthy as well.
Thanks for the help lew!