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I purchased a package of live plants. They come with the roots in a clear gel. Ive rinsed the roots over and over. It still feels slick but I think the roots are that way naturally. My question is. ..will it poison Herman (my RES) if there is any of that gel still on the roots? If so, how can I make sure to rinse it all off?
Thanks! Cheryl

Most gels are synthetic or naturally occurring hormones for the roots to take better. I do not believe in rooted plants in a turtle tank because they will just keep digging them up , very curious or nosy ! I am not sure one way or another if the gel could harm a turtle so I would wash and wash it off. I use several different floating plants for Piggley.

His she'll is only about 2" long, so I'm not sure of his age. I bought him at the fair. He ate All the floating plants in about a week but doesn't care about the bottom half of the tank, except for occasionally putting a for on a plastic plant to stop and see the sights on his way by. ..lol. I bought a moss balls and water lily bulbs(not sprouted yet). BTW..I did rinse the plants and roots but I don't know if All the gel is gone. I've only had Herman a couple wells so I'm still learning. I have a 20 gal filter on a 10 gal tank for the moment and he gets it filthy within 2 days so I was hoping live plants would help the water. Thanks for replying!

Some of us that like live plants for a more natural setup have a plant tank just to keep up with a turtle. Myself have a 70 gallon plant tank. Hornwort grows fast and helps the water. I let some float and tie some to rocks.
Give Herman as much water in that 10 but safe level so he can't escape , turtles love to climb. Almost time for an upgrade. Every inch of turtle shell needs 10 gallons of water alone pulse basking area!

If you run it under water and rub with your fingers, does it still feel slick?

The plants have been in for 5 days now. He's even eaten a few of the roots and seems happy as ever. I'm checking out larger tanks too. Thanks for all the replies!

Good to hear for you and Herman !