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how to Grow monte carlo
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 4:47 pm
by oceanaid
My Monte Carlo isn't spreading like it should. I've got a 10 gallon tank with CO2, medium light, and Fluval Stratum. What am I missing?
Re: how to Grow monte carlo
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 5:44 pm
by toxikid
Yo, sounds like you're doing most things right. How long has it been since you planted? Sometimes it takes a minute to kick off. Also, what's your light schedule? Too much or too little can mess with it.
Re: how to Grow monte carlo
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 7:12 pm
by digger9
Monte Carlo needs consistent CO2 levels and good flow to distribute nutrients. Check your drop checker color. If it's not lime green, adjust your CO2. Also, trim any dying leaves to encourage new growth.
Re: how to Grow monte carlo
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 9:04 pm
by Rapidon
I had the same issue, bro. Turned out my light was too weak. Upgraded to a Nicrew and bam, it started carpeting. Maybe check your PAR levels?
Re: how to Grow monte carlo
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 10:36 pm
by nEmo95
bruh, my Monte Carlo took forever to spread. Then I added some root tabs and it went wild. Maybe your substrate's running low on nutrients?
Re: how to Grow monte carlo
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 12:07 am
by joeboy9
digger9 wrote: ↑Fri Aug 01, 2025 7:12 pm
Monte Carlo needs consistent CO2 levels and good flow to distribute nutrients. Check your drop checker color. If it's not lime green, adjust your CO2. Also, trim any dying leaves to encourage new growth.
Solid advice. I'd also test your nitrates. If they're too low, the plant might be starving.
Re: how to Grow monte carlo
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 12:44 am
by Whiskerz
How often are you doing water changes? Too many can strip nutrients, too few can lead to algae. Find a balance, maybe 20% weekly.
Re: how to Grow monte carlo
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 1:09 am
by dustybrook
I've had success with Monte Carlo in low tech tanks. It grows slower but still carpets eventually. Maybe reduce CO2 and see how it responds.
Re: how to Grow monte carlo
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 2:28 am
by oceanaid
Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll check my CO2 levels and maybe add root tabs. Appreciate the help.
Re: how to Grow monte carlo
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 3:57 am
by toxikid
nEmo95 wrote: ↑Fri Aug 01, 2025 10:36 pm
bruh, my Monte Carlo took forever to spread. Then I added some root tabs and it went wild. Maybe your substrate's running low on nutrients?
For real, root tabs are a game changer. I use the Seachem ones and my plants love 'em.