Narrow Leaf Sagittaria

Description

• Moderate to High Lighting: Narrowleaf Sagittaria thrives and displays its best color (sometimes with a reddish tinge) in moderate to high lighting conditions.
• Low Light Tolerance: It can survive in lower light, but growth will be slower, and the plant might stretch more vertically to reach the light source. 

• Nutrient-rich Substrate: Since Narrowleaf Sagittaria is a root-feeding plant, a nutrient-rich substrate is essential for optimal growth.
• Recommended Substrates: Options include aquarium soils (e.g., ADA Amazonia soil, Eco-Complete), fine gravel mixed with nutrient-rich aquatic soil, or sand supplemented with root tabs.
• Fertilization: Regular fertilization, especially with iron supplements like Seachem Flourish Iron, can prevent leaves from yellowing (a common sign of iron deficiency) and promote healthy growth. 

• Temperature: The ideal temperature range is 64-82°F (18-28°C), although it can tolerate a wider range of 59-82°F (15-28°C).
• pH: It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.5 – 7.5,  However, some sources suggest a broader range of 6.0-8.0 is acceptable.
• Water Hardness: It can thrive in a range of hardness levels, from soft to moderately hard (3-10 dGH).
• Water Changes: Regular partial water changes (20-30% weekly) are recommended to maintain stable water parameters. 

• Optional but Beneficial: While Narrowleaf Sagittaria can grow well without CO2 supplementation, it will exhibit faster growth and a more lush appearance when CO2 is provided.
• Recommended CO2 Levels: If using CO2, aim for levels between 15-30 ppm. 

• Planting: Gently bury the roots in the substrate, taking care not to cover the crown (the base of the leaves) to prevent rot.
• Spacing: Space individual plants 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) apart to encourage healthy growth and carpeting.
• Aquascaping: Depending on the variety, it can be used as a foreground (Dwarf Sagittaria varieties), mid-ground, or even background plant. 

• Runners: Narrowleaf Sagittaria propagates readily through runners (horizontal shoots) that spread across the substrate.
• Separation and Replanting: You can detach the new plantlets that develop on the runners and replant them elsewhere to expand your Sagittaria carpet or share them. 

• Regular Trimming: Trimming is necessary to manage its growth and maintain the desired shape and height.
• Carpeting Effect: Trimming older or longer leaves can encourage the plant to send out more runners and promote the dense carpeting effect. 

• Peaceful Fish and Invertebrates: Narrowleaf Sagittaria is compatible with a wide range of peaceful freshwater fish and invertebrates, providing shelter and hiding places.
• Fish to Avoid: Avoid keeping it with large herbivorous species like goldfish or certain cichlids, as they may uproot or damage the plants.