Horsetail Rush

Horsetail Rush (Equisetum hyemale) is a distinctive and hardy aquatic plant. Known for its tall, bamboo-like stems and unique appearance, Horsetail Rush can add a striking vertical element to your aquarium or pond setup. This plant is particularly appreciated for its easy care requirements and adaptability to various water conditions.

Planting and Placement

Substrate: Horsetail Rush prefers a nutrient-rich substrate but can grow in a variety of substrates, including gravel and sand. Plant the stems in the substrate, ensuring the roots are covered but the rhizomes are not buried too deeply to prevent rot.

Light Requirements: This plant thrives in moderate to high lighting. While Horsetail Rush can tolerate lower light conditions, high lighting promotes vigorous growth and maintains the plant's robust appearance.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: Horsetail Rush is quite adaptable and can thrive in a wide temperature range, from 50°F to 80°F, making it suitable for both tropical and temperate tanks.
• pH: It prefers slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
• Hardness: This plant can tolerate a wide range of water hardness levels, from soft to hard water (3 to 15 dGH).

Maintenance

Pruning: Regular pruning is necessary to manage the growth of Horsetail Rush, as it can quickly become tall and bushy. Trim back overgrown stems to maintain the desired height and shape. Removing any yellowing or damaged stems will promote healthier growth.

Fertilization: Horsetail Rush benefits from regular fertilization, especially in less nutrient-rich substrates. Use root tabs or a balanced liquid fertilizer designed for aquatic plants, following the manufacturer's recommended dosage. This helps ensure the plant receives essential nutrients for optimal growth.

Propagation

Horsetail Rush propagates through division and rhizome cuttings. To propagate, carefully separate a section of the plant with roots and rhizomes intact and replant it in the substrate. Ensure the new sections are planted properly to encourage healthy growth.