Water sprite propagation tricks

[embera4]

I've been trying to propagate Water Sprite in my 20 gallon tank but the new growth keeps melting. I'm using a Finnex Planted+ light, dosing Seachem Flourish weekly, and have a sponge filter. Any tips to stop the melt?

[luminor6]

Water Sprite is sensitive to sudden changes in lighting or nutrients. How long have you had the light on? If it's more than 8 hours, try reducing it to 6-7. Also, check your nitrates. They should be around 10-20 ppm for healthy growth.

[boltz]

I've had success with floating Water Sprite instead of planting it. The roots get more access to nutrients in the water column. Maybe try that? Also, what's your substrate? If it's inert, the plant might not be getting enough iron.

[waveson1]

yo, my sprite was melting too until i switched to root tabs. stuff's magic. also, keep the water flow low, they don't like strong currents.

[islando]

I agree with boltz. Floating Water Sprite works wonders. I've got mine in a 30 gallon with moderate light and it's thriving. No melt issues at all.

[fusionist]

Have you checked your water hardness? Soft water can sometimes cause melt in Water Sprite. Aim for a GH around 6-8.

[Flaremax]

dude, just chuck some extra ferts in there and call it a day. sprite's tough, it'll bounce back. mine did after i kinda forgot about it for a week.

[dawnsage]

Water Sprite can be finicky with CO2. Are you injecting? If not, try a liquid carbon supplement like Excel. It might help with the melt.

[orchestraConductor]

I've noticed that Water Sprite does better in tanks with stable parameters. How often are you doing water changes? Frequent changes can stress the plant.

[embera4]

Water Sprite is sensitive to sudden changes in lighting or nutrients. How long have you had the light on? If it's more than 8 hours, try reducing it to 6-7. Also, check your nitrates. They should be around 10-20 ppm for healthy growth.

Thanks for the advice. I'll reduce the light duration and test my nitrates today.