question about rock wool

[Big Kid]

I am ordering plants from online and they are all potted plants. I asked what I have to do to plant them and they said that I should remove the pots but leave the rock wool. I have been looking in the forums and most people say to remove the pots and the rock wool. So my question is should I remove it also or leave it. If I leave it in what will that do to my tank in long term. Right now the tank is empty but I do plan on putting fish in it after a week or two once the plants have settled in.

[superjohnny]

I take it off. If you don't it'll just junk up your substrate. It's tough to get off, but I've had pretty good luck using the hose in the sink... not the faucet, but the gun thingy next to it... know what I mean? That and submerging it in water and gently swishing it around.

I try to avoid buying plants with that junk, but it's tough to do sometimes.

[MrGoodbytes]

I also remove the rockwool. Eventually it will start to come through the top of the gravel, which doesn't look too great and it's tough to get out.
It gives the roots more room too, which is always good.

Graeme

[RTR]

As most potted aquatics are grown emerse with hydroponic nutrient solutions circulated around the roots, the rock wool is heavily loaded with nutrients which can leech into your tank and promote algae blooms. One pot may not contribute a lot, but if you do multiple plants, you are asking for problems.

[Big Kid]

Thanks for the replies. That is what I will do then. Hope they arrive soon. I'll try to post some pictures later on

[MrGoodbytes]

We look forward to seeing them :).