So that the Pogostemon helferi does not drift back and forth in the water, it has developed fine adhesive roots. This allows the plant to cling to the ground, stones or roots. Pogostemon can also live as an epiphyte in the aquarium. However, this requires some help.
Stones are excellent for tying up Pogostemon helferi
Cultivation as a sitter
Pogostemon helferi is one of the aquatic plants that you can plant in the sandy bottom of the aquarium. The front and, if necessary, the middle area of the aquarium is suitable for this. But the plant, which can be up to 10 cm tall, can also be cultivated as a so-called epiphyte. This makes it possible to place them a little higher overall.
A stone can offer it a secure hold, and a dead root is also ideal. Both are not unpleasantly noticeable in the natural water landscape, they even represent decorative elements themselves.
tips
Special roots that have a long lifespan in the water are offered in aquaristic shops. It may even be that you can find a ready-made solution with a plant there.
Untie Pogostemon helferi
When Pogostemon helferi comes into contact with a new substrate, it begins to form fine roots that enable it to attach itself. However, the formation of the adhesive roots takes several weeks. Immediately after the small starwort, as the plant is also called, has taken its place, it is still at the mercy of the water current and aquatic life. It has to be untied.
- Place plant well
- tie with nylon thread or fishing line
- alternatively glue with aquarium glue
This work is easier to do if you do it outside the aquarium and then put the plant in the water. The cord stays on until the plant has grown. It doesn't bother you any more afterwards, but is removed again for optical reasons.
Touch the plant with velvet gloves
As it stands, Pogostemon helferi is a delicate plant. Even the smallest injury makes waxing difficult. It has also been observed that the entire plant can die off. When planting, be careful not to damage Pogostemon helferi. Even an unsuitable shearing can cut into the plant.