FishProfiles.com Message Forums

So I am setting up a new 20 gal long Dwarf Puffer Tank and I bought one pot of Watersprite. I hear it grow rappidly and I would like to use its off shoots to plant in the gaps of my planting. So I am wondering the best way to propagate watersprite? Does one just cut a stem in any ol place or should it be cut lower toward the roots? Any thoughts?

If the plant you are referring to is Ceratopteris thalictroides, propagation will be the [least of your worries. When it's happy, and it's an adaptable plant so it's frequently happy in an aquarium, it will throw off plantlets by the hundred. Your problem with this plant will be keeping it under control! Believe me, it grows like it's setting out on a campaign for world domination - all it needs is some nutrients from your fishes, a reasonable level of lighting, and hey presto, it'll grow like a weed. You won't need to take cuttings - just collect the little baby plantlets. If anything, you'll be cutting it not for cuttings, but to thin it out so your fishes have space to swim!



Panda Catfish fan and keeper/breeder since Christmas 2002

So pardon my lack of knowledge but what do you mean by "baby plantlets"? Are these the leaves or steams with leaves...??? Also will the plant be effected and die to be trimmed back? Thank you for your knowledge.

For the watersprite to propergate it must have the correct conditions including good light. I have been growing it for more years that I would like to remember. Occasionally it just refuses to grow then all of a sudden it kicks of again. I am only refereing to the floating type.

The little plantlets grow from the outer edges of the leaves it will have its own root system just leave it alone and it will grow. When mine gets going I have to toss out some every week otherwise it will cover the top of the 5ft tank.

Have a look in [link=My Profile] http://www.fishprofiles.com/forums/member.aspx?id=1935[/link] for my tank info

Look here for my
Betta 11Gal Desktop & Placidity 5ft Community Tank Photos

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