Give a Natural Look to Aquascape with Willow Root Driftwood
Willow root driftwood can be the right choice if you want to create a natural and lush impression on your aquascape.
This type of driftwood is widely chosen because it has many tendrils, thus creating a forest-like effect when combined with moss and other aquatic plants.
In addition, Willow root driftwood is also relatively easy to get, whether you look for it yourself from various types of Willow trees or buy it at an aquascape supply store.
Is Willow root safe for aquariums?
Willow root driftwood is safe for aquariums as long as you process it correctly and remove the tannins or cambium on the stems and roots.
You should also not use bleach to clean Willow roots so that it is still safe to use as driftwood in an aquarium.
How to prepare Willow root to be safely used as driftwood?
Like other types of wood that will be soaked in water for a long time, you need special treatment so that Willow roots can be used for driftwood.
- The first thing you have to do is clean the Willow roots from the soil that is still attached.
- Then you can boil the Willow root for about 5 minutes.
- After that, remove, rinse and then soak the root again in cold and clean water overnight.
- The next step is to dry the Willow root under the sun’s rays.
- Then you can use it as driftwood for the aquarium.
You can read our detailed article on how to clean driftwood
Pros of putting Willow root inside the aquarium
- Willow roots have stringy and thin branches, suitable for small and medium-sized aquascapes
- The root is creating a fantastic effect because it has many tendrils and branches. If you can manage it well, the aquarium will look more beautiful and lush
- Non-toxic and suitable to be placed in the aquarium as a shelter for fish, shrimp, and other aquatic animals
Cons of having willow root driftwood
- Willow roots take a long time to sink. You may need a ballast to keep it submerged.
- Driftwood from Willow roots did not last long.
- The structure of the Willow root rots quickly, so you must replace it immediately with the new one.
In conclusion
- Willow root driftwood is very safe for aquarium
- You need to remove its tannin first
- This kind of driftwood gives a beautiful and natural effect, but the roots rot very quickly
Willow root driftwood gives a uniquely natural feel to your aquascape, but you should know that this is not a type of driftwood that can last long in the water.
