do you test water for plant health?

[duskwing]

I've been keeping a planted tank for a few months now, and my plants aren't thriving like I expected. I test for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate regularly, but should I be testing for other stuff too? My tank's a 20 gallon with Fluval Stratum, moderate lighting, and CO2 injection. Plants include Anubias, Java Fern, and some stem plants that keep melting.

[BowmanX]

Yep, testing just the basics won't cut it if your plants are acting sketchy. You gotta check phosphate and potassium too. My stems were melting until I realized my phosphate was basically zero. Now I dose a bit, and they're chilling. Also, what's your CO2 level? Too much or too little can mess with growth.

[guppywave]

I feel you, man. My tank's got similar issues. I started testing for iron and magnesium, and turns out my water's super soft. Had to add some minerals, and now my plants are way happier. You using any ferts? If not, might wanna look into that.

[floreta]

Testing for micronutrients is crucial if you're serious about plant health. I recommend a comprehensive test kit that includes iron, manganese, and calcium. In my experience, Anubias and Java Fern are hardy, but stem plants often show deficiencies first. What's your lighting schedule? Too much light without adequate nutrients can cause melting.

[duskwing]

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll grab a broader test kit and check those other parameters. My CO2's around 30 ppm, and I'm using a basic all-in-one fert, but maybe it's not enough. Appreciate the help!

[floral]

I've had good luck with Seachem's line of fertilizers. Their Trace supplement made a big difference in my tank. Also, how often are you doing water changes? Too frequent can strip nutrients, too infrequent can lead to buildup.

[KitchenPro]

Yep, testing just the basics won't cut it if your plants are acting sketchy. You gotta check phosphate and potassium too. My stems were melting until I realized my phosphate was basically zero. Now I dose a bit, and they're chilling. Also, what's your CO2 level? Too much or too little can mess with growth.

Totally agree on the phosphate thing. I was ignoring it until my plants started looking sad. Now I test it weekly, and my tank's way better. Also, don't forget about pH swings with CO2, that can stress plants too.

[BowmanX]

I've had good luck with Seachem's line of fertilizers. Their Trace supplement made a big difference in my tank. Also, how often are you doing water changes? Too frequent can strip nutrients, too infrequent can lead to buildup.

Yeah, Seachem's stuff is solid. I use their Excel for algae control, and it's a game-changer. As for water changes, I do 20% weekly, but I adjust based on how the plants look. If they're happy, I might skip a week.

[guppywave]

I'm kinda lazy with water changes, ngl. I do like 25% every two weeks, but I dose ferts daily. My plants seem fine with it, but I've got a ton of floaters that probably help with nutrient uptake. Maybe try adding some Frogbit or Salvinia?

[floreta]

Float plants are a great idea for nutrient control. They're like a natural filter. Just be sure to thin them out regularly so they don't block too much light. Also, keep an eye on your substrate. Over time, it can compact and choke roots, especially in finer substrates like Stratum.