Slicing Anubias ...

[darth pike]

I have read in several articles about this genus that to get more leaves to spring from the rhizome, you can make a small slice in it. I assume you would use something sharp and thin like a razor blade so you aren't crushing the rhizome. The question is, does this actually work. I've kept the plants for years but have never really worried about looks other than keeping them algae free. Now though I'm working on more of a display tank and would like a little fuller look from these beauties.

If it does work, how deep should the cuts be? How long?

Thanks.

 

[Supracoracoideous]

I am pretty sure if you slice the rhizome, it will branch. If you want more leaves from the rhizome that is already there, you can cut all of the leaves or most of the leaves off, and they should come back denser.

 

[JamesF]

I've done this many times. Just cut a small notch out of the rhizome (think the same as when felling a tree). New leaves will sprout from the notches and eventually a new rhizome will develop from there.

 

[darth pike]

Thanks. I always prefer to check with people rather than just assuming everything I read is correct.

 

[punk-in-drublic]

Yep this works. The other thing that is great about anubias is you can just cut a rhizome in half and now you have two. I have done this with many of my anubias just use a sharp knife and make sure you get at least one leaf and it should work.

 

[FLESHY]

Interesting. I have seen people on planted forums swear that this doesnt work, they must not have notched it deep enough.

One thing you will want to know about trimming anubias is that they put off a toxin after they have been cut...so you might want to do it out of tank and rinse them afterwards. After retuning them to tank...maybe wait an hour or so and then do your ritual water change.

 

[darth pike]

How deep of a notch would you suggest if you aren't actually trying to spilt it?

 

[Fat Homer]

Interesting. I have seen people on planted forums swear that this doesnt work, they must not have notched it deep enough.

One thing you will want to know about trimming anubias is that they put off a toxin after they have been cut...so you might want to do it out of tank and rinse them afterwards. After retuning them to tank...maybe wait an hour or so and then do your ritual water change.

Wow i never knew they leeched toxins when cut? also good to know that you can make a denser plant by cutting the rhizome... i must try it out myself..