is my flow too strong for plants?

[Kalevo]

I've got a 20 gallon tank with a Fluval 207 canister filter, and my Amazon Swords keep getting uprooted. The flow seems strong, but my Betta doesn't mind it. Should I dial it back for the plants?

[oceanmix]

What's your substrate like? If it's just gravel, the roots might not have enough to hold onto. Try adding some root tabs or switching to a planted tank substrate.

[readfast]

Yo, my Fluval 307 was doing the same thing to my Valisneria. I stuck a sponge on the output to diffuse the flow, and now everything's chill. Maybe try that?

[sealine]

Strong flow can be tricky for some plants. Amazon Swords prefer slower currents, but they'll adapt if the roots are secure. How often are you doing water changes? Stability helps.

[Kalevo]

Thanks for the tips. I'll try the sponge trick and see if that helps. My substrate is just gravel, so maybe I'll look into root tabs too.

[oceanmix]

Thanks for the tips. I'll try the sponge trick and see if that helps. My substrate is just gravel, so maybe I'll look into root tabs too.

Root tabs will definitely help. Also, consider tying the Swords to small rocks until they establish.

[readfast]

For real, my Valisneria took forever to settle until I weighted it down with lead strips. Now it's spreading like crazy. Just don't go too heavy with the flow reduction, or you'll get dead spots.

[sealine]

Dead spots are a legit concern. If you're using a sponge, make sure to clean it regularly. Algae loves clogged sponges, and that's a whole other headache.

[oceanmix]

For real, my Valisneria took forever to settle until I weighted it down with lead strips. Now it's spreading like crazy. Just don't go too heavy with the flow reduction, or you'll get dead spots.

Lead strips work, but be careful with them in soft water. They can leach metals over time.

[readfast]

Good point. I've got hard water, so it's less of an issue. Maybe ceramic rings or plant weights would be safer for soft water setups.