Water hyacinths usually feel more comfortable in an aquarium than in a garden pond. Here, brightness and humidity can be better controlled so that the plant finds ideal conditions. It is often even possible to encourage the water hyacinth to bloom.
How do you care for water hyacinths in the aquarium?
Water hyacinths thrive in an aquarium with a water temperature of at least 18 degrees, high humidity and plenty of light for at least twelve hours a day. Soft, low-lime water and sufficient nutrient supply are also important for he althy growth and possible flower formation.
Choosing the aquarium
An aquarium in which water hyacinths are to be planted must be neither too high nor too shallow. A pool that is at least 20 to 40 centimeters deep is particularly favorable.
A paludarium is well suited for keeping water hyacinths in the aquarium. This is a swamp aquarium in which not only plants but also reptiles can be grown.
The needs of water hyacinth in the aquarium must be satisfied if the plant is to grow and bloom:
- High water temperatures
- High humidity
- Lots of light
The lighting should be switched on for at least twelve hours a day. Thanks to the cover and the aquarium heater, the water temperature of at least 18 degrees and high humidity can be adjusted quite easily.
Caring for water hyacinths in the aquarium
The water should be soft and contain little lime. Make sure there are enough nutrients for the water hyacinth to thrive. If necessary, you must regularly give fertilizer for aquatic plants.
Under good conditions, the water hyacinth forms many offshoots that you can use to propagate. You should thin out the plants regularly so that they don't take up the entire aquarium.
Be careful with aquariums filled with fish
Fish like koi and goldfish like the roots of water hyacinth and like to nibble on them and damage the plant. That's why the aquatic plant is not so suitable for koi tanks.
Put in the garden pond in summer
Basically, a water hyacinth can also be kept in a garden pond from May to October. However, the change is not always successful in specimens that have previously been grown in the aquarium.
Water hyacinths react sensitively to changes in water quality, temperature and light.
Since the aquatic plants are not hardy, they have to be overwintered in an aquarium or another suitable container anyway.
Tips & Tricks
The water hyacinth is enjoying increasing popularity as a decoration. It is grown in suitable vases and glass vessels. In a favorable location it will bloom for several weeks.