What to do with large swords

[sumthin fishy]

I have a planted 10 gal with a bunch of amozon swords. Most of them are 4-6 inches, but one of them was a little biger when I got it. It's now grown so a few of the leaves are bent over at the surface of the water. I dont really see a way to prune this thing down ya know? I have been wanting to plant my 55 gal but am not ready for that yet financially. What are my options?

On a side note, that one has developed some hair algae(only the large sword has it ATM) How do I get rid of it? I suspect it may have come from an upgrade in my lighting (was 5wpg incandescant, now is 3.5wpg floro). Ive dealt with a bunch of diferent algaes, but never this kind. TIA!

 

[Aussie_hippie_2]

I know! Send it to me.
Could you maybe put it in a bucket under a strong light until you can get that 55? That's the only option I can think of...

 

[monkey_toes]

What are my options?

Option 1: You can trim off the leaves that are too large, leaving only the smaller, developing leaves. You'll need to continually remove leaves as they get too large until you're ready to move the plant to the 55g.
Option 2: Sell or trade the plant.
Option 3: Do nothing. Let the plant overgrow and move it when you're ready. If you do this, the emersed leaf tips will probably brown and shrivel, but the plant's health is not likely to be affected.
Option 4: Pull it out of the tank and make a salad. (Note: I do not recommend this option and will not be held responsible for any consequences, real or imagined. :Angel

On a side note, that one has developed some hair algae(only the large sword has it ATM) How do I get rid of it?)

Remove the affected leaves. If more develops on other leaves, you may want to consider adding a CO2 system to your tank (or something that grows really fast and can outcompete the algae for nutrients).

 

[Squawkbert]

Amazon swords are "tank busters" - to trim leaves, snip 'em off at the base. Plan on doing this often.