Best Plants for a Low KH Tank

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infold
Posts: 157
Joined: Thu Mar 03, 2022 5:50 pm

Re: Best Plants for a Low KH Tank

Post by infold »

Don't overlook Rotala Rotundifolia. It's a stem plant that can adapt to low KH tanks, especially if you keep the lighting moderate. It adds a nice pop of color too, which is a bonus.
gatormax
Posts: 6
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 5:48 pm

Re: Best Plants for a Low KH Tank

Post by gatormax »

lula wrote: Thu Aug 28, 2025 7:29 pm I've had good luck with Amazon Swords in my low KH tank. They're not picky about hardness as long as you give 'em enough root tabs. Also, floating plants like Frogbit help shade the tank, which keeps things stable.
Yep, Amazon Swords are solid. Just watch out for the size, they can get huge. Frogbit's a good call too, helps keep algae in check.
kalexi
Posts: 7
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:42 pm

Re: Best Plants for a Low KH Tank

Post by kalexi »

Another thought: if you're into carpeting plants, Monte Carlo can work in low KH tanks. It's a bit more demanding but doable with good substrate and consistent care.
swampdweller
Posts: 6
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 5:54 pm

Re: Best Plants for a Low KH Tank

Post by swampdweller »

I'd also recommend checking your pH stability. Low KH can lead to pH swings, which might be stressing your plants. Adding some crushed coral can help buffer it without raising KH too much.
firedrop
Posts: 6
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:24 pm

Re: Best Plants for a Low KH Tank

Post by firedrop »

swampdweller wrote: Fri Aug 29, 2025 8:39 am I'd also recommend checking your pH stability. Low KH can lead to pH swings, which might be stressing your plants. Adding some crushed coral can help buffer it without raising KH too much.
That's a great point. Stability is key. Even if the KH is low, consistent parameters will help plants adapt better.
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