Hardly any other aquatic plant requires so little care and gains volume as quickly as waterweed. But every now and then it happens that it only grows poorly, changes its appearance unattractively or even dies. We highlight the most common causes.
Why isn't my waterweed growing?
If the waterweed does not grow, the causes can be difficulties in getting used to it, unfavorable water temperatures, poor lighting conditions or harmful degradation products and fish medications. Improve growing conditions by adjusting temperature, light levels and water quality.
Critical adjustment period
Occasionally it happens that a water pest newly introduced into the aquarium does not want to start growing as expected, turns brown and loses some of the leaves. This could be a matter of difficulty getting used to it. For example, if the plant was previously in a stream and is suddenly exposed to different living conditions in the aquarium. The waterweed usually recovers and sprouts again.
Tip
Plant waterweed or let it float? This question is answered differently by aquarists. Some see this as the cause of growth problems. It is also worth making changes here if necessary.
Unfavorable water temperature
Various types of water plague have spread in this country. Their temperature preferences differ. Values of 14 to 22 °C are generally considered acceptable. Warmer temperatures, such as those found in tropical aquariums, can lead to stunting.
It is also important to ensure that the temperatures do not differ too much in different areas of the aquarium. Ideally, a floor pool heater (€50.00 on Amazon) with integrated flow is used.
Bad lighting conditions
The waterweed in the pond needs a lot of light and therefore must not be heavily shaded. Above all, it can be too dark in an aquarium that is inadequately lit.
- Avoid shading from other plants
- plant in the front area of the tank
- Set up the aquarium brightly
- Increase lighting time
- if applicable. attach another lamp
Degradation products and fish medicines
Caring for waterweed also includes an adequate supply of nutrients, trace elements and CO2. This is known to the owners so that there is rarely a defect. Other substances that float in the water in intolerable concentrations can prove to be more problematic. It has been observed that the use of fish medications can harm waterweed. Check the quality of the water regularly and change it regularly.
