To have a lively aquarium with diverse colors and save time on maintenance, we should plant some aquatic plants. They not only serve as decoration but also provide hiding spots for fish. Additionally, they help filter dirt and debris from your aquarium. Some people also grow them for feng shui purposes.
In addition to the aquatic plants introduced by aquaplantshub.com before, today, aquaplantshub.com would like to introduce you to a species of freshwater algae known as the Hornwort.
Outstanding features of Hornwort
The scientific name commonly referred to is Tropical Hornwort. It belongs to the family Ceratophyllaceae, genus Ceratophyllum. This algae is called Hornwort (some localities refer to it as Dogtail algae) because its shape resembles the tail of a weasel.
Its color depends on sunlight exposure. Areas with more light appear green, while those with less light are darker green.
The stem of the plant is quite brittle; when broken, it can form a new plant. It is a plant that can grow independently without much care.
Hornwort can only survive in clean water environments and will deteriorate in dirty, polluted water.
>>> See more: HOW TO GROW AND CARE FOR THE AQUATIC PEACE LILY
Techniques for planting Hornwort in the aquarium and Notes
This plant species is very resilient. Its planting method is also quite simple.
Choosing the aquarium for planting
As a species that lives submerged entirely in water, choose an aquarium with a height of about 40 – 50cm, width of at least 50cm, and depth of about 30 – 40cm.
Choosing the plant
Choose plants that are moderately mature so they can root and thrive. Select plants that are not rotting and are in the process of aging.
Planting technique
When bringing the plant home, wash off any dirt and mud stuck to it. If the plant is too long, you can cut it into segments about 8 – 10cm long.
Then strip the leaves from the base for about 2cm. The purpose of this is to avoid burying the leaves when planting, which would cause them to rot and damage the plant.
Add a layer of sand or mud about 0.5 – 1cm thick to the aquarium. Insert the roots of the plant and then fill the aquarium with water. Remember to add water slowly and gently to avoid dislodging the plant from the substrate. The plant will float in the water, absorbing nutrients and growing.
Planting Hornwort from seeds
When planting from seeds, simply scatter the seeds in the aquarium to let them float; they will germinate and find a place to anchor, just like in nature.
Planting from seeds will be more challenging if you already have fish in the tank, as the fish may mistake the seeds for food and eat them.
>>> Click Now: SIMPLE WAY TO GROW AND CARE FOR AQUATIC PEACE LILY
How to care for Hornwort properly
Hornwort is characterized by its preference for cleanliness. It absorbs nutrients from the water it lives in to grow. Keep the aquarium clear and not murky so the plant does not absorb toxins, which could lead to plant poisoning; within just 3 – 5 days, the plant will have rooted and started to grow.
Light for Hornwort
This plant lives in water, so it is considered to prefer shade rather than bright light. Pay attention to the appropriate amount of light for the plant, such as morning or evening sunlight, or LED light for photosynthesis.
Suitable temperature
The plant thrives in warm temperatures, around 19 – 27oC. It can survive at lower or higher temperatures, but its colors may not be vibrant, and the leaves may become sparse, not thick and beautiful.
Nutrients for the plant
Fish waste is sufficient for the plant’s growth since this plant does not require much nutrition. However, if you notice the plant becoming thin, sparse, and changing color, even with adequate temperature and light conditions, it indicates a nutrient deficiency. You need to supplement with non-harmful fertilizers like Urea for the plant immediately!
Notes
Trim any damaged parts of the plant or rotting leaves. If the plant grows too quickly and spreads too wide, trim back older, sparse plants to keep the aquarium looking tidy and attractive.
>>> See more: TOP 5 AQUATIC PLANTS FOR FENG SHUI TO GROW IN YOUR HOME
If you are interested in other aquatic plants like Ludwigia, Peace Lily,… please visit our page aquaplantshub.com!
Trần Thị Cẩm Nhung
