why won't my plants grow faster?

[Oakley]

My Anubias and Java Fern have been in my 20 gallon for months, but they're barely growing. I've got a Nicrew light, do weekly water changes, and use root tabs. What's the deal?

[medic23]

Anubias and Java Fern are slow growers by nature, but let's troubleshoot. What's your photoperiod? Are you dosing any liquid fertilizers? Also, check if your light's PAR rating is sufficient for these plants.

[Oakley]

Thanks for the quick response. I run the light 8 hours a day, no liquid ferts, just root tabs. The light's a Nicrew Classic, not sure about PAR.

[terralynx]

Yo, root tabs ain't gonna cut it for Anubias or Java Fern since they're water column feeders. Grab some liquid ferts like Thrive or Easy Green, and bump that light to 10 hours. Also, check if your tank's got enough flow to distribute nutrients.

[SoundWise]

Yo, root tabs ain't gonna cut it for Anubias or Java Fern since they're water column feeders. Grab some liquid ferts like Thrive or Easy Green, and bump that light to 10 hours. Also, check if your tank's got enough flow to distribute nutrients.

Exactly this. Root tabs are wasted on epiphytes. I'd add that your Nicrew might be too weak if it's the basic model. Consider upgrading to a planted tank light if growth stays sluggish after adding liquid ferts.

[foliage]

I had the same issue until I started using Seachem Flourish. Now my Anubias puts out a new leaf every couple weeks. Maybe try that?

[Raveno4]

Light intensity and nutrient availability are critical. The Nicrew Classic provides approximately 20 PAR at 12 inches depth, which is marginal for low-light plants. Supplement with liquid fertilizers containing micronutrients, and ensure your photoperiod is consistent.

[korvina]

Another factor could be water parameters. Have you tested for nitrates, phosphates, and potassium? Deficiencies in any of these can stunt growth even with adequate lighting.

[Squishy]

Another factor could be water parameters. Have you tested for nitrates, phosphates, and potassium? Deficiencies in any of these can stunt growth even with adequate lighting.

Agreed. I'd also suggest testing your GH and KH. Some plants struggle in very soft or hard water. A comprehensive test kit like the API Freshwater Master Kit plus GH/KH tests would help pinpoint issues.

[lunargo]

Patience is key with these species. Anubias in particular grows painfully slow for many hobbyists. Focus on maintaining stable conditions rather than chasing rapid growth.