How Do You Deal with Plant Pests?

[Aurorae]

Quarantine is smart. I also dip new plants in a weak salt solution before they go in. Just a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon, soak for 10 minutes. Kills most pests without harsh chemicals.

[turfman]

Quarantine is smart. I also dip new plants in a weak salt solution before they go in. Just a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon, soak for 10 minutes. Kills most pests without harsh chemicals.

Salt dips are great for prevention, but they won't always knock out an active infestation. For that, you'll need something stronger like peroxide or alum.

[morgel]

True. Salt's more of a preventative. For active pests, gotta go nuclear. Just make sure you're not overdoing it, or you'll stress the plant more than the bugs.

[folkyst]

Also, check your water params after treatment. Some dips can mess with the balance, especially if you're not rinsing well enough. Had a tank crash once from leftover peroxide.

[Hampuk]

Good point. Always rinse plants in dechlorinated water after any dip. And maybe do a small water change in the main tank, just to be safe.