Can replanting a plant hurt it?

[Rita]

Hello,

So I’ve had my planted tank for about a month and a half. I have eco complete substrate and so far the plants are doing great. I have 2 cryptocoryne plants planted directly behind my dwarf aquarium Lilly. I dramatically underestimated the growth I’d get out of the aquarium Lilly and it has basically created a canopy over the crypt, completely blocking them from view and light. 

Ok, to the point finally... Is it harmful to the crypt to uproot them and move them? I haven’t placed any root tabs or anything yet as the eco complete still seems to be doing it’s job. So I guess I’m torn wether it’s more harmful to move the plants or leave them partially obstructed.

Thanks everyone!

[lefty o]

for me, moving crypts hasnt ever been an issue in the same tank, or tank to tank. i think melt happens when everything changes, put in different water etc.  id move it, and not think twice about it. worst case scenario it will melt back then regrow.

[Marnol D]

Disturbing the plants root system will always usually will lead to some melt back but the plant should bounce back aslong as it gets nutrients.

[ChefConfit]

Harm...no. But you'll see growth slow or stop until it reestablishes itself. Possibly anywhere from a week to a month+ depending on the plant and probably other factors. Some minor melting is also possible but shouldn't be crazy that's usually cause by a big change in water parameters or shipping. I've never had my crypts melt noticeably from moving them around/between my tanks but some people do. 

Also just so you know ecocomplete is considered an inert substrate. There's some debate about it if provides some micronutrients, but it definitely does not provide macros so tabs will most likely benefit your crypts once they're reestablished. 

[Rita]

Replanting complete! Let’s hope for the best with these little guys

[Fishmonger_X]

crypts melt.... even if you move them within the same tank. Your plants look good and I think they will be be fine.,,, I moved one of mine from one tank to another and it's doing great!