Troubleshooting
Strict Hygrophila problems — and how to fix them
Strict Hygrophila (Hygrophila stricta) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Yellowing leaves
Usually indicates iron or micronutrient deficiency; dose an iron-rich liquid fertiliser and check substrate nutrition.
Leggy, sparse growth
Caused by insufficient light; increase photoperiod to 10-12 hours or upgrade to higher-output LEDs.
Algae on leaves
Excess nutrients combined with low plant density; increase planting density, reduce photoperiod slightly, and add fast-growing competitors.
Stem rot at substrate
Poor substrate circulation or compaction; gently loosen substrate around roots and ensure adequate water flow.
Slow growth without CO2
Inject CO2 at 20-30 ppm or add liquid carbon supplement (glutaraldehyde-based) to unlock faster, denser growth.
Prevent strict hygrophila problems before they start
Most strict hygrophila issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Strict Hygrophila problems — FAQ
Why is my strict hygrophila yellowing leaves?
Usually indicates iron or micronutrient deficiency; dose an iron-rich liquid fertiliser and check substrate nutrition.
Why is my strict hygrophila leggy, sparse growth?
Caused by insufficient light; increase photoperiod to 10-12 hours or upgrade to higher-output LEDs.
Why is my strict hygrophila algae on leaves?
Excess nutrients combined with low plant density; increase planting density, reduce photoperiod slightly, and add fast-growing competitors.
Why is my strict hygrophila stem rot at substrate?
Poor substrate circulation or compaction; gently loosen substrate around roots and ensure adequate water flow.
Why is my strict hygrophila slow growth without co2?
Inject CO2 at 20-30 ppm or add liquid carbon supplement (glutaraldehyde-based) to unlock faster, denser growth.