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is my heater bad for plants?
Posted: Sat May 31, 2025 2:16 am
by Jack
I've got a 20 gallon planted tank with Java Fern and Anubias, but my plants seem to be struggling. The heater is set to 78°F, and I'm wondering if that's too warm for them. Anyone else run into this?
Re: is my heater bad for plants?
Posted: Sat May 31, 2025 3:01 am
by flame
78°F is generally fine for most tropical plants like Java Fern and Anubias. What's your lighting like? Low light plants can get stressed if the light's too intense, even if the temp is okay. Also, check for algae, that can mess with plant health.
Re: is my heater bad for plants?
Posted: Sat May 31, 2025 4:56 am
by foxcape
Yeah, 78°F shouldn't be the issue unless your heater's sketchy and spiking temps. What brand is it? I've had cheap heaters cook my plants before. Also, how often are you doing water changes? Stagnant water can be worse than a slightly high temp.
Re: is my heater bad for plants?
Posted: Sat May 31, 2025 6:29 am
by sealux
foxcape wrote: ↑Sat May 31, 2025 4:56 am
Yeah, 78°F shouldn't be the issue unless your heater's sketchy and spiking temps. What brand is it? I've had cheap heaters cook my plants before. Also, how often are you doing water changes? Stagnant water can be worse than a slightly high temp.
Agreed. A reliable heater is key. I'd recommend a digital thermometer to double-check the temp. Sometimes the heater's dial is off by a few degrees.
Re: is my heater bad for plants?
Posted: Sat May 31, 2025 8:05 am
by Sivaso
Bruh, my plants were wilting too till I realized my heater was busted. It was flickering temps between 75 and 82. Got a new one, plants perked right up. Check if yours is acting weird.
Re: is my heater bad for plants?
Posted: Sat May 31, 2025 8:43 am
by barkcode
What's your substrate situation? If it's just gravel, the roots might not be getting enough nutrients. Java Fern and Anubias are hardy, but they still need some love. Also, what's your CO2 like? Low CO2 can stunt growth even if the temp's fine.
Re: is my heater bad for plants?
Posted: Sat May 31, 2025 9:42 am
by Jack
Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll check the heater with a separate thermometer and look into the lighting. Appreciate the help!
Re: is my heater bad for plants?
Posted: Sat May 31, 2025 9:47 am
by Freshlex
No prob, Jack. Also, if you're using liquid ferts, make sure you're not overdosing. Too much can cause algae, which'll choke out your plants. Been there, done that.
Re: is my heater bad for plants?
Posted: Sat May 31, 2025 11:21 am
by rubioux
Freshlex wrote: ↑Sat May 31, 2025 9:47 am
No prob, Jack. Also, if you're using liquid ferts, make sure you're not overdosing. Too much can cause algae, which'll choke out your plants. Been there, done that.
Yep, balance is key. I'd start with half the recommended dose and adjust from there.
Re: is my heater bad for plants?
Posted: Sat May 31, 2025 1:10 pm
by FiShyPet
My two cents, check your water hardness too. Some plants don't do well in super hard water. If your tap's got a high GH, might wanna cut it with RO or distilled.