Growing plants emersed

[cichlidgirl22]

I'm setting up a 20 long for emersed swords and crypts. I want to keep them healthy. What's the best setup to maintain good condition for these plants?

[coltin]

You know, I'd treat those emersed swords and crypts like you would any garden plants. Give 'em water, a decent liquid fertiliser, and some light, and they'll thrive.

[cichlidgirl22]

You know, I'd treat those emersed swords and crypts like you would any garden plants. Give 'em water, a decent liquid fertiliser, and some light, and they'll thrive.

High humidity, is that really necessary for emersed plants. I've heard some folks say the substrate should be super wet, almost muddy, but I'm not sure if that's the way to go.

[kokomo]

The big lines are pretty sensitive to their environment. You'll want to maintain a humid microclimate, around 70-90% relative humidity. A well-draining substrate mix is key - I've had success with a blend of sphagnum moss, perlite, and orchid bark. Keep it consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Good air circulation is also crucial, and regular fertilization will promote healthy growth. In terms of lighting, full-spectrum is the way to go, with moderate to high intensity - 12-16 hours a day should do the trick.

[coltin]

I've kept mine in regular garden pots with potting mix, just sitting on a concrete slab outside in full sun. If they're already grown in a humid environment, like a dome, they'll likely need higher humidity initially. However, it's definitely possible to acclimate them to full sun conditions over time.