Anubias is a gorgeous aquatic plant that can lend an exotic touch to any indoor space when grown in a pot. With its broad, lush leaves and tropical vibe, it makes a living statement wherever displayed. Though native to African rivers and streams, anubias can adapt and thrive as a houseplant if given proper care.
In this comprehensive guide, we will provide tips on selecting the ideal pot, creating the right soil mix, providing adequate light and humidity, troubleshooting problems, and more to successfully grow happy, healthy anubias plants in pots indoors.
Choosing the Right Pot for Anubias
Anubias have short roots so they don’t require deep pots Select a wide, shallow container made of porous terracotta or plastic. This allows oxygen to penetrate the soil and prevents root rot.
Make sure the pot has several drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging A 6-8 inch diameter pot is ideal for most varieties like Anubias barteri nana. Larger varieties may need a 10-12 inch wide pot
Before transferring the plant, clean the pot thoroughly to remove dust and residues. Disinfect it to prevent disease transmission.
Creating the Perfect Potting Mix
Anubias need moisture-retentive but well-aerated soil. Create an ideal potting mix by combining:
- 2 parts potting soil or compost
- 1 part perlite or pumice for drainage
- 1 part peat moss to retain moisture
- A handful of aquarium gravel or sand (optional)
You can also use a specialist aquatic plant or orchid potting mix. The soil should be rich in nutrients but remain light and fluffy.
Caring for Anubias: Light, Water and Humidity
Native to shaded aquatic environments, anubias thrive in low to moderate indirect light. Place the pot near a brightly lit east-facing window.
Water when the top inch of soil dries out, taking care not to overwater. The saucer should be emptied after watering to prevent soggy soil.
Misting the leaves and grouping plants raises humidity. Ideal levels are 60-80%. Use a humidifier if humidity is persistently low.
Fertilization for Healthy Growth
While anubias are not heavy feeders, they benefit from occasional fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer like fish emulsion at half strength every 2-3 weeks in spring and summer. Reduce application in fall and winter.
If leaves turn yellow with green veins, apply an iron supplement specifically formulated for aquatic plants as per instructions.
Common Pests and Diseases
Aphids, mealybugs and scale insects may infest the leaves while fungal issues like leaf spot or crown rot can affect roots. Take prompt action at first signs:
- Isolate affected plants
- Remove pests manually
- Treat with neem oil, insecticidal soap or appropriate fungicide
- Improve air circulation
Prevention by maintaining plant health is key to avoiding pests and diseases.
Repotting Anubias
Repot anubias when the roots fill the pot or every 2-3 years in spring. Gently remove the plant and separate attached offsets to repot individually.
Select a container only 1-2 inches larger to avoid overpotting. Refill with fresh, nutrient-rich potting mix, taking care not to bury the rhizomes.
Allow several weeks for the plant to establish before resuming fertilization.
Propagating Anubias
Propagation is done by dividing the rhizome when repotting. Each division must have 2-3 leaves and some roots.
You can also remove a leaf with a section of the petiole and place it in water to grow baby plants. Plant the rooted offsets in potting mix.
Take stem cuttings just below the node and root them in water to make new plants.
Growing Anubias Outdoors in Ponds
Anubias can be grown outdoors in ponds and water gardens provided the climate is warm year-round. Submerge the potted plant or plant anchored to rocks and logs.
Provide shade to mimic its natural habitat. Bring potted plants indoors or to deeper waters if temperatures drop below 60°F.
With their exotic looks and ease of growth, anubias make a wonderful addition to indoor spaces. Follow these tips on choosing pots, creating potting mix, providing moisture and fertilization to grow a healthy and thriving anubias houseplant that lasts for years.
Nutrients and fertilizers for healthy plants
To keep your potted aquarium plants healthy, you need to provide them with the right nutrients and fertilizers. Plants in pots have limited access to natural nutrients, so it’s important to supplement their diet. Here are some key points to remember:
- Nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are essential for plant growth.
- Fertilizers can help provide these nutrients to your plants.
- Choose a fertilizer specifically designed for aquatic plants to ensure optimal growth.
- Be careful not to over-fertilize as it can harm your plants.
Essentials for successful growth
To successfully grow potted aquarium plants, you will need to focus on providing them with the right environmental conditions. Here are the essentials you need to consider:
- Light: Ensure your plants receive adequate light for photosynthesis to occur.
- Nutrients: Monitor and supplement the nutrients in the water to support healthy plant growth.
- Substrate: Use a suitable substrate to anchor the plants and provide essential nutrients.
- CO2: Consider adding CO2 to the aquarium to promote plant growth.
- Maintenance: Regularly trim and maintain the plants to prevent overcrowding and promote growth.
STOP Putting Gravel At The Bottom Of Your Pots!
FAQ
How do you care for potted Anubias?
Can you keep Anubias in a pot?
How to keep an Anubias plant alive?
Can you leave aquarium plants in the pots they come in?
Can Anubias grow in an aquarium?
Remember, Anubias plants are pretty chill. They don’t rush to grow, and they’re not very fussy. So, just a little care here and there, and they’ll be happy in your aquarium. Time to learn about making more Anubias plants! There are a few ways to do it. Take the plant out of the water gently. Look for the thick part called the rhizome.
How do you grow Anubias in a pot?
Follow these steps: Get a potted Anubias plant with minimal height of 3”, super glue and aquarium rocks. Gently remove the plant from the pot. Clean the roots with your hands gently and dry them with a soft cloth. Locate the rhizome (between the leaves and the roots).
Are Anubias easy to care for?
Anubias is a very versatile plant that’s extremely easy to care for. It comes in an innumerable amount of varieties with distinct size, shape, and color. It’s no wonder why it’s such a popular plant among aquarists!
Is Anubias a good plant for a fish tank?
It’s also a favorite plant to the most experienced aquascapers because of its versatility. Anubias is a popular plant for planted fish tanks due to its hardiness, easy care, and ability to thrive in different environments. In this article, we will give an overview of: 1. How to care for Anubias 2. Advantages of keeping Anubias 3.