how to Grow ludwigia repens

[oceana_4]

I've been trying to grow Ludwigia Repens in my 20 gallon tank but it's not thriving. The leaves are turning yellow and some are falling off. I've got a basic LED light, sand substrate, and dose liquid ferts once a week. What am I missing?

[quart]

Ludwigia Repens needs more light than you're giving it. A basic LED might not cut it unless it's high output. Also, sand substrate can compact and starve the roots. Try root tabs if you're not using them already. How long are your lights on each day?

[oceana_4]

Ludwigia Repens needs more light than you're giving it. A basic LED might not cut it unless it's high output. Also, sand substrate can compact and starve the roots. Try root tabs if you're not using them already. How long are your lights on each day?

Thanks for the tips. Lights are on for about 6 hours. Gonna try root tabs and see if that helps.

[mazie]

6 hours might be too short for Ludwigia Repens. I run mine for 8-10 hours with a stronger light and it's doing great. Also, check your water params. High nitrates can cause yellowing. What's your nitrate level?

[bassmaster]

I've had luck with Ludwigia Repens in low tech tanks. It's all about balance. Too much light without enough CO2 can cause algae, which might be competing with your plant. Maybe dial it back to 7 hours and see.

[jinxo]

Ludwigia Repens is a tough one if your tank isn't dialed in. I'd start with the basics: light, ferts, and CO2. Even a little liquid CO2 can help. What's your tank temp? Cooler water can slow growth.

[quart]

Ludwigia Repens is a tough one if your tank isn't dialed in. I'd start with the basics: light, ferts, and CO2. Even a little liquid CO2 can help. What's your tank temp? Cooler water can slow growth.

Temp is key. Ludwigia prefers warmer water, around 75-80°F. If your tank's cooler, that could be part of the issue. Also, liquid CO2 is a good shout for low tech setups.

[boulderk]

I've seen Ludwigia Repens melt when first planted. It might just be adjusting. Give it a few weeks before making big changes. Are you trimming the stems? That can encourage bushier growth.

[mazie]

I've seen Ludwigia Repens melt when first planted. It might just be adjusting. Give it a few weeks before making big changes. Are you trimming the stems? That can encourage bushier growth.

Trimming is a good point. I always cut the tops and replant them. It fills out the tank faster. How long have you had the Ludwigia in your tank?

[oceana_4]

I've seen Ludwigia Repens melt when first planted. It might just be adjusting. Give it a few weeks before making big changes. Are you trimming the stems? That can encourage bushier growth.

Trimming is a good point. I always cut the tops and replant them. It fills out the tank faster. How long have you had the Ludwigia in your tank?

It's been about a month. I'll try trimming and replanting. Gonna bump the light to 8 hours and add root tabs. Thanks, everyone!