Yes, stem plants can grow emersed, which means they can grow above the water surface. This is because stem plants have the ability to adapt to different environments and conditions. However, not all stem plants can grow emersed equally well, and some may require special care and attention to thrive in this mode of growth.
In this article, we will explore the benefits and challenges of growing stem plants emersed, as well as some tips and tricks to help you succeed in this hobby. We will also introduce some of the best stem plants for emersed growth, and how to set up an emersed plant tank or terrarium.
Stem plants are a type of aquatic plants that have a main stem with leaves and branches growing along it. They can be planted in the substrate or left floating in the water. Some examples of stem plants are Rotala, Ludwigia, Bacopa, Hygrophila, and Alternanthera.
Stem plants are popular among aquarists because they are usually easy to grow, propagate, and prune. They also provide a lot of color, texture, and height to the aquarium, creating a beautiful aquascape. Moreover, stem plants can help improve the water quality and oxygen levels in the tank, as well as provide shelter and food for fish and invertebrates.
Why Grow Stem Plants Emersed?
Growing stem plants emersed can have several advantages, both for the plants and the hobbyists. Here are some of the reasons why you might want to try growing stem plants emersed:
Emersed growth can enhance the color and shape of the plants. Many stem plants develop more vibrant colors and more compact forms when grown emersed, as they receive more light and carbon dioxide from the air. Some stem plants may also produce flowers when grown emersed, adding more beauty and variety to your plant collection.
Emersed growth can increase the health and vigor of the plants. Growing stem plants emersed can help them acclimate to different water parameters and conditions, making them more resilient and adaptable. Emersed growth can also prevent algae growth and pest infestation, as the plants are exposed to less moisture and nutrients in the substrate. Additionally, emersed growth can boost the growth rate and propagation potential of the plants, as they can produce more shoots and runners above the water.
Emersed growth can offer a new and exciting challenge for the hobbyists. Growing stem plants emersed can be a fun and rewarding experience, as you can experiment with different plants, setups, and techniques. You can also create a stunning emersed plant tank or terrarium, which can be a great addition to your home or office decor. Emersed growth can also save you some money and space, as you can use smaller tanks or containers, and less water and equipment.
Growing stem plants emersed is not very difficult, but it does require some planning and preparation. Here are some of the steps and factors you need to consider when growing stem plants emersed:
Choose the right plants. Not all stem plants can grow emersed well, and some may need more care and attention than others. Some of the best stem plants for emersed growth are Rotala rotundifolia, Ludwigia repens, Bacopa caroliniana, Hygrophila difformis, and Alternanthera reineckii. These plants are easy to grow, colorful, and adaptable to different environments and conditions. You can also mix and match different stem plants to create a diverse and attractive emersed plant tank or terrarium.
Choose the right container. You can use any container that can hold water and plants, such as a glass jar, a plastic tub, a wooden box, or a metal tray. The size and shape of the container will depend on the number and type of plants you want to grow, as well as the space and design you have in mind. You can also use a regular aquarium tank, but you will need to lower the water level to about an inch or two below the rim, and cover the top with a lid or a plastic wrap to maintain the humidity and temperature inside.
Choose the right substrate. You can use any substrate that can support the roots and stems of the plants, such as gravel, sand, soil, or peat. The substrate should be moist but not soggy, and rich in nutrients but not too fertile. You can also add some fertilizer or root tabs to the substrate to provide extra nourishment for the plants. However, you should avoid using substrates that are too fine or too coarse, as they can either compact or erode over time, affecting the stability and health of the plants.
Choose the right location. You should place your emersed plant container in a location that receives enough light and air circulation, but not too much heat or cold. You can use natural or artificial light sources, such as a window, a lamp, or a LED strip. The light intensity and duration will depend on the type and needs of the plants, but generally, you should aim for about 8 to 12 hours of light per day. You can also use a timer or a dimmer to control the light cycle and intensity. You should also avoid placing your emersed plant container near a heater, an air conditioner, or a fan, as they can dry out or damage the plants.
Choose the right maintenance. You should monitor and maintain your emersed plant container regularly, to ensure the optimal growth and health of the plants. You should check the water level and the substrate moisture, and add or remove water as needed. You should also prune and trim the plants, and remove any dead or dying leaves and stems. You should also clean the container and the lid or the plastic wrap, and remove any algae or dirt that may accumulate. You should also inspect the plants for any signs of disease or pest infestation, and treat them accordingly.
Stem plants are a type of aquatic plants that can grow emersed, which means they can grow above the water surface. This can have several benefits for the plants and the hobbyists, such as enhancing the color and shape of the plants, increasing the health and vigor of the plants, and offering a new and exciting challenge for the hobbyists. However, growing stem plants emersed also requires some planning and preparation, such as choosing the right plants, container, substrate, location, and maintenance. By following these tips and tricks, you can successfully grow stem plants emersed, and enjoy the beauty and variety of this hobby.
