is my tank size limiting plants?

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timbero
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 5:31 pm

is my tank size limiting plants?

Post by timbero »

My Anubias aren't growing much in my 10 gallon tank. I've got a basic LED light, sand substrate, and do weekly water changes. Could the tank size be the issue? They've been in there for months but barely any new leaves.
guppyMaster
Posts: 1
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 3:25 pm

Re: is my tank size limiting plants?

Post by guppyMaster »

Anubias are slow growers, but a 10 gallon might be limiting if you've got other plants competing for nutrients. What's your fertilizer routine? Also, sand can sometimes compact and starve roots. Try root tabs if you haven't already.
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Renewer
Posts: 4
Joined: Wed Oct 09, 2024 11:51 pm

Re: is my tank size limiting plants?

Post by Renewer »

Tank size isn't the main factor here. Anubias thrive in low light and don't need much space. Your issue is likely nutrient related. Test your water for nitrates and phosphates. If they're low, dose a comprehensive liquid fertilizer. Sand alone won't cut it.
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zena4x
Posts: 22
Joined: Thu May 26, 2022 9:20 pm

Re: is my tank size limiting plants?

Post by zena4x »

Yo, my Anubias did the same thing till I stuck 'em near the filter flow. Maybe yours are too chill? They like a bit of movement, not too much tho. Also, what's your light schedule? Too much or too little can mess with 'em.
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Clack
Posts: 71
Joined: Mon May 23, 2022 2:42 pm

Re: is my tank size limiting plants?

Post by Clack »

Renewer wrote: Thu Jun 19, 2025 5:26 pm Tank size isn't the main factor here. Anubias thrive in low light and don't need much space. Your issue is likely nutrient related. Test your water for nitrates and phosphates. If they're low, dose a comprehensive liquid fertilizer. Sand alone won't cut it.
I agree. I'd also check your KH and GH. Anubias can be picky about hardness. My batch perked up after I adjusted mine.
manny_dude
Posts: 3
Joined: Mon Apr 08, 2024 7:58 pm

Re: is my tank size limiting plants?

Post by manny_dude »

Dude, sand is sketchy for plants unless you're dosing heavy. I switched to gravel and my Anubias took off. Also, how old's your LED? Lights lose intensity over time. Might need an upgrade.
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Pureace
Posts: 21
Joined: Fri Apr 05, 2024 5:05 pm

Re: is my tank size limiting plants?

Post by Pureace »

Anubias are epiphytes, so substrate doesn't matter much. Tie 'em to driftwood or rocks instead. Tank size is fine, but if you've got fast growers like Hornwort sucking up nutrients, that's your problem. Balance your plant load.
Auric
Posts: 9
Joined: Thu Oct 31, 2024 1:23 pm

Re: is my tank size limiting plants?

Post by Auric »

Bruh, my 5 gallon has booming Anubias. It's all about the light and ferts. You running CO2? Even a tiny dose can help. Also, check for algae blocking light. A quick scrub might do wonders.
timbero
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 5:31 pm

Re: is my tank size limiting plants?

Post by timbero »

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try root tabs and check my water hardness. Didn't realize sand could be part of the issue. Gonna move one to driftwood too and see if that helps.
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creekline
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 12:53 am

Re: is my tank size limiting plants?

Post by creekline »

Honestly, Anubias are tanks. Mine survived a snail apocalypse. If yours are struggling, something's off. How often do you clean the tank? Mulm buildup can mess with nutrients. Also, what's your temp? Too cold slows growth.
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