Having set up an aquarium, it is important to ensure the proper planting of special plants to maintain normal gas exchange. To avoid problems, it is worth choosing unpretentious cultures. Hygrophila lemongrass - a plant for an aquarium, which in the wild is widespread in the vastness of India, Malaysia and Indonesia. Often found in river waters in Thailand and America (Florida).
Description and Features
A plant with bright green large leaves, it is characterized by rapid growth. In another way, it is also called a straight nomafil. Hygrophilus lemongrass quickly takes root after transplantation. Due to its unpretentiousness and ease of care, the plant is popular among both experienced and novice aquarists. The length of the plant can reach 40 centimeters. The width of the sheet is from six to thirteen centimeters. It is the fast growth rate that distinguishes lemongrass from other aquarium plants.
Stems often reach the surface of the water. But this is not recommended, as a shadow may form. This plant is suitable for both small and rather large aquariums. However, even such an unpretentious culture, it is important to ensure the correct landing and care. To do this, adhere to the recommendations of professional aquarists.
Landing Recommendations
Propagation of the plant is carried out by cuttings. All you need to do is cut a few twigs of lemongrass and plant in the ground. After some time, the root system appears. Thanks to this, the plant quickly takes root and begins to develop.
Schisandra should be planted five to six branches in one hole throughout the entire back and side walls of the aquarium. Under the right conditions of planting, it will grow rapidly, forming large thickets in the aquarium, which will adversely affect the health of its inhabitants. It is important that the aquarium is not oversaturated with the plant. Therefore, lemongrass should be planted in several holes, without overloading the soil and without taking the habitat from the fish. In order for the hygrophilic lemongrass to grow correctly, it should provide:
- high-quality, most nutritious soil;
- timely pruning;
- replacing one fifth of the aquarium water (weekly).
Conditions of detention
Hygrophile lemongrass important is the correct temperature. The optimum temperature is 24-27 ° C. Every week you need to change 20% of the water in the aquarium.
Schisandra will grow faster if flow is directed at it. To do this, you should purchase a quality filter. Therefore, his choice is not worth saving. In this case, the structure and density of the soil is not important. The only condition when choosing soil for lemongrass is a nutrient medium.
The plant needs to be thinned from time to time so that the thickets are not too thick. This factor must be constantly monitored. An exception can be made for the dwarf hygrophilous lemongrass. This plant is compact in size and slow in growth.
Schisandra for an aquarium began to be grown in Holland, and now it is popular all over the world. The plant adapts perfectly to the water and its inhabitants, so it is perfect for any aquarium. For good and proper growth, it is worth considering that lemongrass should grow under lighting of two to three watts per gallon.
Problems growing a plant
Hygrophilus lemongrass - unpretentious plant. However, certain problems may arise with its cultivation. One of the disadvantages of the plant is the loss of the lower leaves. The reason for this is insufficient lighting at the bottom of the aquarium. And the upper leaves for the lower form a shadow that does not transmit light. Therefore, regular pruning of the plant should be carried out.
General recommendations
To hygrophile lemongrass pleasing to the eye and create a favorable environment in the aquarium, it is worth trimming and caring for it in a timely manner. The plant should not reach the surface of the water in height. Regular, correct and appropriate pruning will increase the diameter of the bushes.
In addition, the hygrophile loves a regular change of water, so part of it needs to be changed weekly. Such care ensures that the plant is beautiful and dense. And most importantly - the aquarium inhabitants will be comfortable in it. It is better to purchase a plant in specialized stores or departments where consultants will be able to tell everything in detail regarding planting and care.