50 Gallon Tank Am I allowed to trim roots of my plants?

Hey guys, so basically I have had my planted tank for around 4-5 months now and I love live plants. But I would still consider myself an amateur. I am wanting to redo my aquascape reusing my old plants and adding some new ones. But my plants have grown long roots.. is it safe to cut the roots back? Will it harm the plants?

 

Hey guys, so basically I have had my planted tank for around 4-5 months now and I love live plants. But I would still consider myself an amateur. I am wanting to redo my aquascape reusing my old plants and adding some new ones. But my plants have grown long roots.. is it safe to cut the roots back? Will it harm the plants?

Cutting back roots actually helps promote growth from what I've heard. It was recommended to me to cut back roots of new plants I was putting in so I do it when rescaping and they do fine.

 

Pruning causes stress whether you're pruning the roots or something else. But, if your plants are healthy enough and the growing conditions are good enough, your plants should have no problem recovering.

And, as bored411 said, pruning can encourage new growth. So, yes, generally it's fine to trim the roots.

 

Alrighty thanks for the help!

 

As mentioned, Trimmed roots allows new growth, in addition to that, it also allows you to replant them much easier.

I trim mine to about 2-3cm. Just make sure you’re using a sharp instrument so the cuts are clean. This will ensure they grow back fast and strong