Potted plant substrate

[rwight54]

Hi Gang, Please tell me what the white mossy stuff is around the roots of the potted plants we bought. Do they provide a symbiosis with the roots and the water environment and where can I get some?

[Akran]

I think what you're referring to is rock wool. Your plant probably originated from a hydroponic nursery, which means the leaves of your plant will likely die off as it adjusts to being underwater for the first time. Don't worry though, it should recover after a while.

I usually try to peel off as much of the rock wool as possible. It's not really harmful as far as I know, but I don't like putting it in my tank.