Pruning and Propagating Swords?

[fins_n_fur]

Unbelieveably, my echinodorus bleheri are growing like mad (despite my current brown string or hair algae problem). Two of them have leaves that are about to poke through the top of the water. When pruning, I think I need to cut the leave off very close to the rosette. So is it safe to away most of the tall leaves without risking the plants dieing? And will I get newer small leaves? These are doing so well and look great that I cannot bare to just toss them in the garbage if they get too tall.

Also, can you propagte these plants by cutting the rosette into halves, thirds, or quarters?

Thanks in advance!

[ILuvMyGoldBarb]

These plants are self-propagating. Like all Echinodorus species they will put out shoots with new plants at the end of them. Dividing the rosette will very likely lead to the plants death.

As for pruning, be sure to take the leaves off the outside and as close to the rosette as possible. These can be gently peeled away as though you were taking apart celery.

[fins_n_fur]

Many thanks, Brad!