feed and fertilizer options

[Rivert]

I'm brand new to live plant care and I'm after some advice. I've got Java ferns, Anubias and Moss balls that I want to keep healthy, but I'm not sure what kind of feed or fertiliser I need. I'm looking for something that's safe for invertebrates, can anyone recommend something? Also, how often should I be using it?

[sSjey]

Your Java ferns, Anubias, and Moss balls get their nutrients from the water, so you'll need a liquid fertiliser. They're slow growers, so they don't require as much as the bottle suggests.

In the UK, I'd recommend Seachem Flourish Comprehensive Supplement for the Planted Tank or TNC Lite - just these two, as they have similar products with slightly different names. I personally use Seachem, and I've got shrimps and snails in my tank, no issues. I dose half the recommended amount once a week, usually the day after a water change, if I remember. To be safe, I'd start with a quarter of the recommended dose and see how your plants respond after a few weeks.

[kingrise]

I've also heard great things about Seachem Flourish Tabs, they're worth checking out - I've seen them on Amazon. As for Moss balls, they're pretty low maintenance, honestly they don't really need any fertiliser.

[sSjey]

Root tabs aren't typically used for Java fern and Anubias since they're generally attached to decor, not rooted in the substrate.

[Rivert]

I've got a query about the Anubias, it came loose, not attached to anything. Should I attach it to something? If so, what's best to use?

[sSjey]

I personally use sewing thread for attaching plants like Anubias. It does have its limitations, as it eventually rots away, but I've found that by the time this happens, the plant has already taken hold. An alternative method is to use cyanoacrylate-based superglue, but be sure the decor is completely dry and wrap the plant's leaves in a damp paper towel until the glue sets.

[sSjey]

The thread will eventually rot away, at which point I simply remove any loose bits to prevent any curious fish from trying to eat them.

[Rivert]

I'm a bit unsure about the CO2 levels for my plants - what's the ideal level?
I use the JBL water test kit which shows some CO2 readings, but to be honest, I'm not really sure what they mean.

Also, I've started to notice brown spots on some of my plants - any idea what might be causing that?

[sSjey]

I don't bother with CO2 in my tanks, and I've got two types that thrive just fine without it. I've got slow-growing plants like yours, and they're perfectly happy with the CO2 the fish and beneficial bacteria provide. Then I've also got fast-growing floaters that just grab CO2 from the air - easy peasy.

It's usually the folks with super high-maintenance tanks, loads of fast growers, heavy fertiliser dosing, and intense lighting that need to worry about adding CO2. But for plants like your Java fern and Anubias, the CO2 from the fish and bacteria is plenty. If you're concerned about those brown spots, a photo would be super helpful - one of our plant experts can take a look and give you some proper advice.