With its bright green, star-shaped, wavy leaves, the South Asian Pogostemon helferi could undoubtedly brighten up any aquarium. But this plant does not want to thrive in every pool of water. When to plant and how to do it.

The Pogostemon helferi is tied up

Favorable and unfavorable conditions

First check whether you can provide the plant with good living conditions. Because the decisive water values must harmonize with all the plants and creatures that live in it. For example, Pogostemon is tolerant of water hardness. The pH value may fluctuate between 6.2 and 7.8. The temperature can also range between 15 and 30 °C, although values above 22 °C are ideal.

A lack of light and an insufficient supply of nutrients could prove problematic for growth. You can and should optimize these unfavorable conditions before planting if you want the Pogostemin to thrive healthily. The brighter the plant is, the bushier it grows.

The best area of the pool

Pogostemon helferi, also called little star or star herb, is one of the smaller aquarium plants with a growth height of about 10 cm. It is therefore popular for aquascaping. Shrimp also like to swim between the leaves to keep them free of algae. In a larger aquarium you should find a free space in the front area. Planting in the middle is also possible in medium-sized aquariums.

Plant with finesse

You should be careful when planting Pogostemon helferi. It is believed that even minor injuries prevent successful growth or even cause the plant to die.

The roots of this aquatic plant can be planted in the ground. However, it is popular as a so-called epiphyte, which independently clings to stones or pieces of root. You should therefore look for a suitable substrate before planting. Aquarium shops are a good treasure trove in this regard.

Tie up until it grows

It takes time for the plant to develop fine adhesive roots. Until then, she cannot hold on on her own. You need to tie up the plant:

  • Place plant on stone or root
  • fix with nylon cord
  • remove cord after growth

tips

If you are so enthusiastic about this plant that you want to have more specimens, then you don't have to open your wallet. You can propagate them yourself using offshoots, cuttings and lateral shoots.

Category:

Vegetable garden