Echinodorus cordifolius 'radican sword' XL

Xl Plants are the biggest plants available to hobbyists and sometimes extremely impressive, especially in the summer time. Pots are typically 9cm+ but the range is fairly limited so if you see one you like, best to go for it.

Why is the range limited in the winter?

Plants grow much slower due to the weather and the cost to heat gigantic greenhouses. As a result, in the cooler months plants are typically 30-40% smaller than they are in the warmer months.

Due to their size, they're best positioned towards the back of your aquarium. Of course, some of them will be better tied onto wood or rock (like Anubias). It is possible to leave these plants in their pots if you prefer, but we always recommend that where possible, you take them out of their pots and rockwool, and plant them in a nutrient rich soil. Bear in mind the plants may have extensive root structure but this can be trimmed prior to planting.

How much food do they need?

Due to their size, larger plants need much more food than the 5cm potted plants so this has to be considered when planting.

What fertilisers should I offer?

We always recommend using both a nutrient rich fertiliser and a liquid carbon for all plants. Use Neutro T as a liquid fertiliser and Neutro CO2 for your carbon. Both are available in big bottles and if you are injecting pressurised CO2, sway the Neutro T for Neutro+.

Are root tabs needed?

If you want to get the best from your plants, so they stay strong, grow faster and produce better colours then yes. Use TerraTabs for best results. Insert 3 under each XL plant every 4 months.