Discus tank plant selection guide

[RiverEdge]

I'm setting up a 75-gallon tank for my Discus and wanna get the plants right this time. Last time, my Java Fern melted and the Anubias got covered in algae. What's the best combo for low-light, soft water? I've got sand substrate, a Fluval 407 filter, and keep the temp at 84°F. Also, any tips on keeping the plants healthy without messing with the water chemistry too much?

[garden]

I feel you on the algae struggle. My tank's got similar specs, 75 gallons, sand, and a canister filter. I've had luck with Amazon Swords and Cryptocorynes. They're chill with the low light and don't mind the soft water. Just gotta watch the roots, they're kinda delicate when you first plant 'em. Oh, and floating plants like Frogbit help shade the tank a bit, cuts down on algae.

[Cleanse]

I'm setting up a 75-gallon tank for my Discus and wanna get the plants right this time. Last time, my Java Fern melted and the Anubias got covered in algae. What's the best combo for low-light, soft water? I've got sand substrate, a Fluval 407 filter, and keep the temp at 84°F. Also, any tips on keeping the plants healthy without messing with the water chemistry too much?

For soft water, stick to plants like Cryptocorynes and Vallisneria. They're hardy and won't mess with your params. I'd also recommend adding some root tabs since sand doesn't have much nutrients. Keep your light period short, like 6-7 hours, to avoid algae. What's your water change schedule like?

[Luckykeeper]

I've got a 60-gallon with Discus and my go-to plants are Java Moss and Bolbitis. They're super low-maintenance and don't need much light. I run my lights for 6 hours a day and do 30% water changes twice a week. The key is consistency, my dude. Also, if you're seeing algae, try reducing the light intensity or adding some Nerite snails. They're great for cleanup.

[gett246]

I feel you on the algae struggle. My tank's got similar specs, 75 gallons, sand, and a canister filter. I've had luck with Amazon Swords and Cryptocorynes. They're chill with the low light and don't mind the soft water. Just gotta watch the roots, they're kinda delicate when you first plant 'em. Oh, and floating plants like Frogbit help shade the tank a bit, cuts down on algae.

Amazon Swords are solid, but they can get huge. Make sure you've got space for 'em to grow. I'd also throw in some Dwarf Sagittaria for the foreground. It's easy to care for and spreads nicely. What's your CO2 situation? If you're not running any, stick to the low-tech plants like Anubias or Java Fern.

[maverick]

I've been keeping Discus for years and my planted tanks always do best with a mix of Crypts and Anubias. They're tough as nails and don't need fancy lights or CO2. Just make sure you're not overfeeding, that's a big algae trigger. Also, if you're using sand, root tabs are a must. I use Seachem Flourish tabs and they work great.

[RiverEdge]

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try the Crypts and Vallisneria combo with root tabs. My water changes are 25% twice a week, and I'll cut the light down to 6 hours. Appreciate the help!

[Cleanse]

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try the Crypts and Vallisneria combo with root tabs. My water changes are 25% twice a week, and I'll cut the light down to 6 hours. Appreciate the help!

Sounds like a solid plan. Keep an eye on the Vallisneria, it can grow fast and might need trimming. Let us know how it goes!

[garden]

Yep, Vallisneria can take over if you're not careful. I trim mine every couple weeks. Also, if you're adding root tabs, push 'em deep into the sand so they don't leach into the water column. Good luck with the setup!