planting in sand not working out?

**SkarloeysMom** · 09-30-2007, 06:58 PM

I got some water sprites for my betta tanks a while back as some of you know. I planted them in the sand but when I clean the tanks they come up and it looks like the roots are not doing well in the sand. Should I not be planting these? Should I just tie them to something or just let them float free?

**gm72** · 09-30-2007, 07:00 PM

I found this incredible information from the best website on the planet:

http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/plants/watersprite.php

**CAF** · 09-30-2007, 07:29 PM

I do not ever recommend the use of sand as a substrate for plants. Most sand substrates will compact crushing the roots of whatever plant is trying to grow there. Of course there are always exceptions to any rule, however, plants that do well need fine threadlike roots in order to make it. Watersprite has two different types. One is a floating type that does much better floating then planted, and the other is vice versa.
I would recommend you try adding some flourite plant substrate. It is very light, and can sometimes be difficult to plant in because of it, however it makes an ideal substrate wih about 3/4 flourite and 1/4 pea gravel mix...

**gm72** · 09-30-2007, 07:32 PM

Nice suggestion and a good explanation. The sand compact easily. I have heard that watersprite is a good beginner's plant, but every plant needs the right substrate. I'm learning as I go along!