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is my tank size limiting plants?
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 2:12 pm
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.
Re: is my tank size limiting plants?
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 3:53 pm
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.
Re: is my tank size limiting plants?
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 5:26 pm
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.
Re: is my tank size limiting plants?
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 6:23 pm
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.
Re: is my tank size limiting plants?
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 7:47 pm
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.
Re: is my tank size limiting plants?
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 8:45 pm
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.
Re: is my tank size limiting plants?
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 10:36 pm
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.
Re: is my tank size limiting plants?
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 11:56 pm
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.
Re: is my tank size limiting plants?
Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2025 1:07 am
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.
Re: is my tank size limiting plants?
Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2025 1:25 am
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.