How to plant Stem plants?

5390 Views 2 Replies 3 Participants Last post by wkndracer, Oct 11, 2009

NJAquaBarren

Discussion Starter · Oct 11, 2009

Hi folks,

I was wondering what the best way to plant stem plants is. The first time I planted a couple of bunches I split them up and planted one by one. Not easy to do in the large flora-max substrate I have. Two weeks on I see small roots starting to grow from a couple of inches above the substrate. So, I pulled them, broke off the stem below the roots figuring that the stem had died below that point, and replanted.

This time around I planted several bunches of Red Temple wrapped together in anchors, maybe 4 stems each, into the substrate. Much easier to get them seated. I thought I would keep them this way, but if they don't look good, I'll split them later AFTER they hopefully grow some roots.

So, is there a BEST technique? See any problems with planting in bunches?

Thanks
AB

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legomaniac89

· #2 · Oct 11, 2009

Generally, planting each stem individually is best, but in small bunches should be fine for most stems. If your substrate is deep enough, just take the base of them stem in forceps and shove it as deep into the gravel as you can.

And just so you know, it's normal for stems to grow roots above the substrate. They just help anchor the plant in place. If you don't like the look of them you can clip them off, but there's no harm in leaving them.

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wkndracer

· #3 · Oct 11, 2009

I think most all stems sprout roots from the leaf node section of the stem placed below the substrate. Grouped in bunch's just crowds them a bit. I try to trim just below a leaf or at a section in the stem already sprouting a root and plant individually.

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