Chapter 1: Introduction
【Child】 Professor, I was reading the Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett, and it got me thinking about how beautiful nature is. In the book, Mary Lennox discovers a hidden garden that has been locked away and untamed for years, where she brings it back to life with her friends. It made me want to create my own secret garden, but underwater! So, I was wondering, what would be the best aquatic plant to start my underwater garden?
【Professor】 Ah, what an excellent choice of literature you’ve chosen, my dear child! Indeed, nature is wonderful and full of surprises. For your underwater garden, let me introduce you to a lovely aquatic plant called Hygrophila polysperma. This versatile aquatic plant is perfect for beginners, yet intriguing for experienced aquascapers as well. In this article, we will discuss the characteristics, cultivation, precautions, and finally, summarize the beauty of this plant.
Chapter 2: Characteristics
【Child】 Professor, could you tell me more about how this aquatic plant looks, much like how William Wordsworth described the daffodils in his poem, “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud?”
【Professor】 Oh, such a beautiful poem it is. Let’s see if I can do justice to Hygrophila polysperma through my explanation. Imagine standing at the edge of a serene lake, looking into the calm water, and spotting numerous stems of this plant that rise with clusters of lance-shaped leaves.
Its leaves can display shades of green to pinkish-red hues under varied lighting, dancing gracefully underwater just as the daffodils did in Wordsworth’s poem. The plant can grow quite tall, up to 24 inches (60 cm), and it can thrive in various aquarium sizes or pond planting positions.
I must also mention that this plant is considered invasive in some places, so you should verify if it is permitted in your area before planting it.
Chapter 3: Cultivation
【Child】 Professor, I am excited to cultivate this plant in my underwater garden. But is it difficult to grow? I would like to understand if it is more like cultivating a delicate orchid or more like growing a hardy cactus?
【Professor】 An interesting analogy, my young friend. Let me assure you that cultivating Hygrophila polysperma is quite an undemanding task. It’s known for its adaptability in varying light and water conditions. This plant, much like your hardy cactus, can survive and thrive in the hands of both beginner aquarists and experienced green thumbs.
However, to maximize its growth and coloration, consider providing an adequate amount of light, maintaining a temperature between 64-86°F (18-30°C), a pH between 5 and 8, and a GH between 2 and 25 dGH.
As for propagation, it is as easy as cutting a stem and replanting it, either submerged or emersed.
So, you see, cultivating this plant is far from the intricate orchid you mentioned!
Chapter 4: Precautions
【Child】 Do I need to beware of any dangers lurking underneath the leaves of this plant, Professor? Like, caveats similar to the ones we see in the Garden of Eden, depicted in Literature?
【Professor】 *chuckles* Although the allusion to the Garden of Eden is fascinating, there’s nothing quite so dramatic with Hygrophila polysperma. However, some precautions should still be taken.
Firstly, this plant can grow at an incredibly fast pace, so you’ll need to keep the growth under control. This can be done through regular pruning to prevent shading other plants or overwhelming the physical space.
Secondly, confirm the legality of planting Hygrophila polysperma in your region, as it is regarded as an invasive species in some areas.
Lastly, when choosing tank mates, avoid herbivorous fish and other plant-eating aquatic creatures who may dine on your Hygrophila polysperma.
Chapter 5: Summary
【Child】 And so, my underwater garden begins its journey to bloom, just like the untamed and forgotten garden that Mary Lennox found in the Secret Garden! Thank you, Professor, for introducing me to the beautiful Hygrophila polysperma.
【Professor】 My pleasure, dear child. With the understanding of its characteristics, cultivation, and necessary precautions, I am sure your Hygrophila polysperma will thrive in your underwater garden, creating a lively aquatic sanctuary. Just like Mary, you have embarked on a journey that combines the wonders of nature and the joy of nurturing growth. I wish you the best on this delightful adventure!