vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

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starwave9
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Joined: Mon Jul 31, 2023 12:59 am

vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

Post by starwave9 »

I'm setting up a new 20 gallon planted tank and can't decide between Vallisneria and Hornwort. Which one would you recommend for a beginner? I've got moderate lighting and a basic substrate.
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fineman
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Re: vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

Post by fineman »

Hornwort's gonna be easier to manage, dude. It grows like crazy and doesn't need much light. Vallisneria can be picky with params, especially if your water's hard.
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trailblazer
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Re: vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

Post by trailblazer »

I've had both in my 40 gallon. Vallisneria looks way cooler when it's thriving, but Hornwort's a beast. It'll outcompete algae and give your fish tons of cover.
tiderip
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 5:14 pm

Re: vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

Post by tiderip »

Vallisneria's the way to go if you want a clean look. Just keep an eye on your nitrates, it's sensitive to spikes. Hornwort's messy when it sheds.
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velocity
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Re: vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

Post by velocity »

fineman wrote: Tue Jun 10, 2025 7:01 pm Hornwort's gonna be easier to manage, dude. It grows like crazy and doesn't need much light. Vallisneria can be picky with params, especially if your water's hard.
I agree with this. Hornwort's been a lifesaver in my low-tech tanks. It's also great for soaking up excess nutrients.
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angler_22
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Re: vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

Post by angler_22 »

Vallisneria's roots spread like wildfire if you've got a decent substrate. Just don't plant it too deep, the crown needs light. Hornwort's chill floating or planted.
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stellaNova
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Re: vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

Post by stellaNova »

Why not both? Toss some Hornwort in the back for fast growth and Vallisneria up front for that sleek vibe. Just trim the Hornwort before it takes over.
stellafox
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 7:52 pm

Re: vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

Post by stellafox »

Hornwort's messy but it's a nitrate sponge. Vallisneria's more finicky but looks way classier. Depends on how much maintenance you wanna do.
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aerialist
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Re: vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

Post by aerialist »

My Vallisneria melted when I switched to RO water. Hornwort didn't care. If your water's unstable, go with Hornwort.
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juloxy
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Re: vallisneria vs hornwort - opinions?

Post by juloxy »

Vallisneria requires stable conditions. If you're new, Hornwort's the safer bet. It's less likely to die on you while you learn the ropes.
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