Choosing the right substrate and plants

[Sunbird]

I'm looking to give my aquarium a bit of a refresh. I've noticed my plants have been struggling lately, so I'm thinking of adding more substrate to help them out. They were doing great at first, but then things took a turn. I'm planning to remove the ones that aren't doing well and introduce two new ones to the mix. I'm also due for a filter change, so that's on the agenda. Any thoughts on this plan? My plants get around 8 hours of light a day, and we've got a skylight above the tank that adds some extra illumination.

[willie32]

I don't think the substrate's the main issue here - those first two plants are epiphytes, they grow on wood and rocks, not in substrate. The crypt, on the other hand, is a root feeder, so you could try using root tabs, Tropica or Seachem are good options.

What's your light fitting like? 8 hours is a decent amount of time, but is it designed for plants or more for show? The skylight should be helping with direct sunlight. Do you have any algae problems?

A liquid fertiliser could also help, again Tropica or Seachem are good options.

[boomer]

@willie32 is spot on with his assessment. The photos you've shared suggest a clear nutrient deficiency, which isn't related to the substrate, but rather a lack of essential nutrients. The lighting could also be a contributing factor to this issue.

[Sunbird]

I don't think the substrate's the main issue here - those first two plants are epiphytes, they grow on wood and rocks, not in substrate. The crypt, on the other hand, is a root feeder, so you could try using root tabs, Tropica or Seachem are good options.

What's your light fitting like? 8 hours is a decent amount of time, but is it designed for plants or more for show? The skylight should be helping with direct sunlight. Do you have any algae problems?

A liquid fertiliser could also help, again Tropica or Seachem are good options.

I do get algae from time to time. I tried those fertilizer pills before and they were a disaster - I had to clean out the entire aquarium. I've looked into liquid fertilizers from Zorchzon, but I'm hesitant after reading all the horror stories about people losing their fish, especially betta. I know my plants need the extra nutrients, but I don't want to risk harming Pineapple in the process.

[boomer]

I'm looking to give my aquarium a bit of a refresh. I've noticed my plants have been struggling lately, so I'm thinking of adding more substrate to help them out. They were doing great at first, but then things took a turn. I'm planning to remove the ones that aren't doing well and introduce two new ones to the mix. I'm also due for a filter change, so that's on the agenda. Any thoughts on this plan? My plants get around 8 hours of light a day, and we've got a skylight above the tank that adds some extra illumination.

I've seen firsthand the difference quality makes when it comes to plant additives - just like with fish food, there's good and there's terrible. Thousands of aquarists use fertilizers without issue, and that's telling. I've had my share of experience with substrate tabs, and I can confidently say API's are subpar and messy. Seachem's Flourish Tabs, on the other hand, are top-notch - I used them for over a decade, and they made a huge difference in the health of my larger swords. As for liquid fertilizers, there's no shortage of rubbish and hazardous options out there. But there are also some excellent ones. Given your concerns, I'd recommend trying Seachem's Flourish Comprehensive Supplement for the Planted Aquarium - it's a great option for non-substrate plants, and it's safe for fish when used responsibly. Just be sure to follow the recommended dose, or even less, once a week.

[Sunbird]

I agree with willie32, there's a clear nutrient issue here, and it's not about the substrate, but rather the lack of nutrients. The light might also be a contributing factor. I can see why you're concerned about using fertilizers, I mean, when you think about it, lawn fertilizers come with warnings to keep pets away for a while. It's natural to worry about the safety of your pets, especially when they're as loved as your betta, Pineapple.

[kokomo]

Really appreciate the advice from everyone. I've personally seen fantastic results with plant growth using Tropica capsules. For lighting, I'd recommend looking for options that specify 7500k - it doesn't have to break the bank, I picked up affordable versions from allpondsolutions.co.uk and they've worked a treat.

[WildFins]

I'm really worried about using fertilizer in my tank, I mean I love my pets and I don't want to risk harming them. When you use fertilizer on your lawn, it's always a warning to keep pets off for a bit, that's what's got me concerned.

[boomer]

I'm looking to give my aquarium a bit of a refresh. I've noticed my plants have been struggling lately, so I'm thinking of adding more substrate to help them out. They were doing great at first, but then things took a turn. I'm planning to remove the ones that aren't doing well and introduce two new ones to the mix. I'm also due for a filter change, so that's on the agenda. Any thoughts on this plan? My plants get around 8 hours of light a day, and we've got a skylight above the tank that adds some extra illumination.

No, I've actually had fish that are far more sensitive and delicate than betta. The thing with quality fertilizers is that they're only a risk if you overdo it, just like with water conditioner.

[boomer]

I'm really worried about using fertilizer because when I use it on my lawn, I'm always warned to keep my pets away for a bit. I just love my pets so much, especially my betta Pineapple. I know it sounds silly, but I just want to make sure I'm not putting them in harm's way.