Water Plants

See the sections on specific propagation techniques for general information. More precise details on how to reproduce a species are given only if these differ from the usual.

Propagation of water plants, especially by seed or cuttings, differs from that of their land-bound cousins. Seed should be sown immediately when fresh, since drying out quickly kills the seed of most species. Regardless of how deep a plant grows, seed is sown just covered on regular, sterile, seed-starting medium; seed trays are then set in some other container so that the water level is just below the soil level - old aquaria work well.

When germination occurs, raise the water level for deep water aquatics, so these are covered completely, and continue to bring it up as the plant grows; other plants may be kept very wet. When true leaves develop, seedlings may be pricked out and grown on in larger pots; repot as necessary during growth. Ample light should be provided throughout.

Similarly, root and stem cuttings are planted into heavy soil or muddy clay; for deep-water plants, root cuttings should be just covered with water. As new plants grow, gradually submerge deep-water plants, so that the shoots stay just at or below the water surface. Stem cuttings benefit from use of rooting hormone; water should just cover the soil surface, but not the cuttings themselves. Once rooted, cuttings may be lowered to their final depth. Marginal plants should be kept very wet, but not submerged.

For aquarium plants, in general, provide water of 3 to 12 degrees of hardness, a water temperature of 70-85F/21-29C, and a depth of up to 20" are ideal, as is a pH in the range of 6.5-7.5. Where cultural conditions differ significantly from these values, this is indicated. Finally, aquarium lighting is discussed in detail, elsewhere.

View listings for Water Plants by Common Names or Species Names

 

Related Topics Seed

See Also Bonsai Cacti and Succulents Fruits and Vegetables Grains and Grasses Herbs Orchids Plants of Home and Garden Trees and Shrubs

 
Don't see what you're looking for? Try our Search function.