Chozon1

Hey all.

So...I decided I wanted to add at least one live plant in my tank. Though I don't have plant or UV bulbs, the watts per gallon is 2 for my tank. I actually wanted a Java Fern or maybe even Java moss, but haven't been able to find any yet. So I grabbed anacharis, because my LFS told me it would grow without a special bulb.

When I got it home, I couldn't plant it in my gravel, so I tied it to a rock. Now, several days later, some of it is turning yellow and dying, and some of it is bright green and sprouting new plants. I have no fish in my tank, with it being close to cycled. Do I need to add fertilizer or special bulbs? Or what? I figure I need to get the dying stuff out before it starts decomposing, right?

aquarist48

Good morning Chozon. I don't have live plants in my tanks so the only advice I can give you is to go ahead and trim off any dead parts of the plant. I know you are correct in saying it needs to be done before it decomposes.
Too, new growth is a "good sign". Best of luck with the plants and your cycle.
Take care,
Ken

Nate McFin

Most plants will have some die off when moved to a new tank. You did the right thing when you removed the dead stuff. Anacharis is a stem plant, it may do a little better to stick the bottom into the gravel a little. It will grow roots and attach itself in time. When you trim the tops just stick the top in the gravel and that too will grow roots. Thats the great part about stem plants.
Again, a little die off is to be expected as the plant adjusts to the new water. Also regarding "special bulbs" Dont fall for the gimmick. If you have 2 watts per gallon you have plenty of good light. A new bulb would just have a different look. Keep the bulbs you have if your happy with the way the tank looks. The only thing you gain from new bulbs (in terms of plant health) is a lighter pocketbook!
-Nate

jgon_

Are you using Seachem Excel bychance as an addative? Excel tends to 'melt' anacharis.

Chozon1

Ok, cool. Thanks for the help. ^_^ I'm glad that I don't need special bubls, and even more glad I read that before I purchased any.

I haven't added excel. I have put in some stability and Prime though. Would that effect it?