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plants that don't need ferts
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2025 12:19 am
by Purrer
What's the deal with plants that don't need ferts? I've got a low tech tank, 10 gallons, sand substrate, and basic LED lighting. Trying to keep it simple but want some green in there. Any recs?
Re: plants that don't need ferts
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2025 2:02 am
by Savoye
Anubias and Java Fern are solid choices. They're low maintenance and don't need ferts. Just tie them to driftwood or rocks. My 20 gallon has both, and they're thriving with minimal light.
Re: plants that don't need ferts
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2025 2:53 am
by onyxette
Savoye wrote: ↑Mon Jul 07, 2025 2:02 am
Anubias and Java Fern are solid choices. They're low maintenance and don't need ferts. Just tie them to driftwood or rocks. My 20 gallon has both, and they're thriving with minimal light.
Yep, those are classics. I'd add Bucephalandra to the list. It's a slow grower but super hardy. My tank's got a mix of all three, and they're chillin' with no extra nutrients.
Re: plants that don't need ferts
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2025 4:48 am
by flavorite
Mosses like Java Moss or Christmas Moss are also great. They don't need ferts and can grow in almost any condition. I've got mine tied to a mesh, and it's spreading like crazy in my 15 gallon.
Re: plants that don't need ferts
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2025 6:06 am
by axonfly
flavorite wrote: ↑Mon Jul 07, 2025 4:48 am
Mosses like Java Moss or Christmas Moss are also great. They don't need ferts and can grow in almost any condition. I've got mine tied to a mesh, and it's spreading like crazy in my 15 gallon.
Totally agree. Moss is a lifesaver for low tech setups. I've even seen it grow in shady spots with zero ferts. Just gotta keep it trimmed or it'll take over.
Re: plants that don't need ferts
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2025 7:00 am
by bronto
Cryptocoryne species are another option. They're root feeders, so they get nutrients from the substrate. My Crypt Wendtii has been growing steadily in my 29 gallon with no added ferts, just fish waste.
Re: plants that don't need ferts
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2025 7:37 am
by freshly
bronto wrote: ↑Mon Jul 07, 2025 7:00 am
Cryptocoryne species are another option. They're root feeders, so they get nutrients from the substrate. My Crypt Wendtii has been growing steadily in my 29 gallon with no added ferts, just fish waste.
Crypts are underrated. They can melt at first but bounce back strong. I've got a bunch in my 40 breeder, and they're thriving with just sand and fish poop.
Re: plants that don't need ferts
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2025 8:08 am
by Purrer
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Gonna start with Anubias and Java Moss since they sound like the easiest. Appreciate the help!
Re: plants that don't need ferts
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2025 8:43 am
by onyxette
No prob, Purrer. Just remember to keep the Anubias rhizome out of the substrate or it'll rot. Good luck with your setup!
Re: plants that don't need ferts
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2025 10:00 am
by axonfly
Yeah, and don't stress if the Java Moss takes a minute to get going. Once it settles in, it's gonna spread like wildfire.