Removing Plants From Substrate

[Madcrawdad]

I recently noticed that each of my once-large swords are now 2 separate smaller plants. I wanted to remove 2-3 of them but am unsure of the best way, as I want do have as little disruption to the rest of the tank as possible.

If I climb in the cabinet and look up at the underside of the tank, there are roots all throughout the tank. Assuming that I just yank these plants out, I'm certain to leave alot of roots behind. Should these decaying roots present any problems?

[fresh_newby]

get a large spoon and dig around the plant loosening up the substrate, then gently pull the plant up gripping the base firmly. If there are a couple of roots behind, it will not pose a problem...it will not hurt the plant either. Swords are hearty and trimming roots is a common practice to slow up growth a bit.

[Mgamer20o0]

get a large spoon and dig around the plant loosening up the substrate, then gently pull the plant up gripping the base firmly. If there are a couple of roots behind, it will not pose a problem...it will not hurt the plant either. Swords are hearty and trimming roots is a common practice to slow up growth a bit.

yes very good idea. i just use my hands but a spoon will prob be better.