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Just got some Vallisneria for my 20 gallon tank, but the leaves are turning brown at the tips. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Using a basic LED light, 8 hours a day. What am I missing?

Vallisneria can be picky about lighting and nutrients. You might need to bump up the light intensity or duration. Also, check your KH and GH, they prefer harder water. What substrate are you using?

Mine did the same thing when I first got em. Turns out they just needed time to adjust. Give it a couple weeks, maybe trim the brown bits. They'll bounce back.

sandfly wrote: ↑Mon Aug 11, 2025 11:45 pm Mine did the same thing when I first got em. Turns out they just needed time to adjust. Give it a couple weeks, maybe trim the brown bits. They'll bounce back.

I agree, patience is key. Also, make sure you're not overdoing the water changes. Vallisneria likes stability.

If you're using root tabs or liquid ferts, Vallisneria will thank you. They're heavy root feeders. I use Seachem Flourish and mine went from sad to thriving in a month.

Lighting is crucial. Basic LEDs might not cut it. Look into full spectrum plant lights. Also, ensure your photoperiod isn't too long, algae can outcompete Vallisneria.

I've had success with Vallisneria in low tech setups. Just make sure your water isn't too soft. If you're using RO, add some remineralizer. They're pretty chill once settled.

drumkin wrote: ↑Tue Aug 12, 2025 1:55 am Lighting is crucial. Basic LEDs might not cut it. Look into full spectrum plant lights. Also, ensure your photoperiod isn't too long, algae can outcompete Vallisneria.

Second this. I switched to a Nicrew planted light and saw immediate improvement. Also, check for snails, they can munch on weak leaves.

My Vallisneria melted at first but grew back stronger. Maybe it's just the transition. Keep an eye on it.

Vallisneria is hardy but sensitive to changes. If you recently added it, give it time. Ensure your filter flow isn't too strong, they prefer calm water.