Why Are My Stems Growing Crooked?

[vicky99]

My Anubias stems are growing all crooked and weird. They're in a 20-gallon tank with a Fluval LED light, and I've been dosing with Seachem Flourish twice a week. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. What's gonna fix this?

[axonix9]

Crooked stems can happen if the light's too strong or uneven. How long's your photoperiod? Also, check if the substrate's loose, might need to anchor 'em better. I had this with my Java Fern once, fixed it by adjusting the light timer.

[beachcomber]

Yep, light's sketchy for sure. My stems went sideways when I cranked the LED too high. Try dimming it or shortening the time. Also, how's the flow? Too much current can mess with 'em.

[aquabite]

Crooked stems can happen if the light's too strong or uneven. How long's your photoperiod? Also, check if the substrate's loose, might need to anchor 'em better. I had this with my Java Fern once, fixed it by adjusting the light timer.

I agree, light's a big factor. My stems straightened out when I switched to a 6-hour photoperiod and added root tabs. What's your substrate like, vicky99?

[Lynxport]

Crooked growth can also stem from nutrient imbalance. You mentioned Flourish, but are you dosing macros too? Anubias are slow growers, but they still need NPK. Test your phosphate and potassium levels if you can.

[russety]

Sounds like a combo of things, tbh. Light, flow, nutrients… all play a part. My stems were a mess till I balanced everything. What's your tank's temp? Cooler water can slow growth and make 'em wonky.

[vicky99]

Crooked growth can also stem from nutrient imbalance. You mentioned Flourish, but are you dosing macros too? Anubias are slow growers, but they still need NPK. Test your phosphate and potassium levels if you can.

I'm not dosing macros, just Flourish. Gonna grab some potassium test strips and see. Thanks for the tips, everyone.

[axonix9]

No prob! Let us know how it goes. Oh, and if you're adding root tabs, don't bury the rhizome. Just a heads-up.

[beachcomber]

Yeah, rhizome's gotta stay above the substrate or it'll rot. Learned that the hard way. Good luck, vicky99!