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  L# Planting depth & distance appart
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SubscribePlanting depth & distance appart
keithgh
 
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male australia au-victoria
I will be setting up a new tank soon. I am getting different answers to the same question old text books.

What is the correct Minium & Maxium depth of the substrate required for planting Crypts. I have seen from 1&1/2 ins to 3-4 ins.

Also what is the recommended distance to plant Crypts appart using the same variety and a mixture of Crypts varieties.

Keith

Last edited by keithgh at 18-May-2005 03:57

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Post InfoPosted 26-Jan-2006 11:44Profile PM Edit Report 
Neon Man
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Keith, I have several "Cryptocoryne wendtii" (Green Crypts) in my low-tech low-light tank.

I would suggest using fine gravel (3-5 mm) to a depth of 3 inches. I planted mine about 10 inches apart last October, and they are doing quite well!

Remember that once you plant them, they do not like to be moved, so give some thought beforehand as to where you want them placed!

Good luck and all best,
Joe
Post InfoPosted 26-Jan-2006 11:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
bensaf
 
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Keith,

3 inches would be about right . These things are like icebergs , the root structure beneath the suface is huge. If the substrate is too shallow you'll see lots of roots poking thru the suface which can look very messy.

I find Crypts grow faster, bigger and more lush if a about 3 plants are planted together. Seems to be a competition thing, they each try to outgrow the other and you end up with a nice grove. Individual plants can look a bit "sad". Give each group a minimum of 6 inches to spread it's wings.

And the previous poster,Joe, is right try not to touch them again onced planted. They are like Greta Garbo - they "vant to be left alone "

Last edited by bensaf at 18-May-2005 08:50


Some days you're the pigeon and some days you're the statue.

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Post InfoPosted 26-Jan-2006 11:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
keithgh
 
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Another thing I came across many years ago was this only refers to Crypts I am not implying it applies to any other species of plant.

Only plant one variety in the same proximity as if their roots touch the strongest plant will release a poison and actually kill the weaker plant.

I know in gardening there are companion plants as well as some plants should not be planted of different species together.

Keith

Near enough is not good enough, therefore good enough is not near enough, and only your best will do.
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Post InfoPosted 26-Jan-2006 11:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
FRANK
 
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Hi,
The term for the defensive mechanism of plants is called
ALLELOPATHY. Specifically, in an aquarium I suggest that
you look at chapter three in the book, ECOLOGY OF
THE PLANTED AQUARIUM by Diana Walstad.
In that 19 page chapter, she describes what it is, and
gives numerous examples of what plant or chemical does
what to who.
Allelopathy in the water, substrate, algae, and in
the aquarium is discussed in detail.

Frank


-->>> The Confidence of Amateurs, is the Envy of Professionals <<<--
Post InfoPosted 26-Jan-2006 11:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
keithgh
 
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FRANK


Thank you Frank as usual you have all the helpful and correct answers.

Keith

Near enough is not good enough, therefore good enough is not near enough, and only your best will do.
I VOTE DO YOU if not WHY NOT?
VOTE NOW VOTE NOW
Post InfoPosted 26-Jan-2006 11:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
harleysiber
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I've got crypts in 3 of my tanks, and Bensaf is right about bunching together. If you buy unpotted plants, the can tend to be scrawny. The potted plants I've bought however tend to be bigger bunches, due to the fact that they've got huge root balls. If they melt when you first plant them, the leaves will come back small and even bushier.

If at all possible, I'd say buy potted from the LFS. It will take more time to be a nice bush, but you'll have to buy less than most online stores.
Post InfoPosted 26-Jan-2006 11:44Profile MSN PM Edit Delete Report 
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