Help Rotala roots

[Sb1415]

Hi,

My rotala is putting out roots this high with good co2 and high light, any idea why?. Happy to provide more info if needed. This is in an established tank that I trimmed recently.

Thanks

 

[HarryL]

I keep getting these roots on most of my rotala as well, less on the ludwigia, not sure why

 

[Art]

Hi, many stem plants show this behavior. It's part of the plants natural survival mechanism. You can read more about this and what to do over at the 2Hr Aquarist: Messy aerial roots?

In my experience, aerial roots develop if:

• the plant is not planted in a bush (territorial expansion behavior);
• the substrate is not root-friendly (old, compacted or grain size is too big);
• the plant is not receiving adequate nutrients; and/or
• you trim instead of trim and replant tops.

You can simply trim the roots that may help reduce their appearance. However, I would encourage you to focus on plant health. From your picture, it seems that the growing tips are greenish whereas the older leaves are bright red. Is this a new plant? If so, the transition from old environment to yours may also cause this.

 

[Sb1415]

Thanks art. Old established plants just trimmed recently. Maybe needs more fertilization which I have been slacking on

 

[Art]

I think that's your first step. You can trim the roots that are really bothering you.

Once they are growing well and healthy, "top" the plants. Trim and replant the tops while removing the lower portions.