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My new tank's plants are melting like crazy, especially the Anubias and Java Fern. I've got a 20-gallon with Fluval Stratum substrate, LED lighting for 8 hours a day, and a sponge filter. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Any tips to stop the melt?

I had the same issue when I started my 15-gallon. It's usually the transition shock. Try reducing the light to 6 hours and dose some liquid carbon. Also, make sure your temp isn't too high, around 76F works for me.

Yep, new tank melt is a real vibe. My Crypts did the same thing, but they bounced back after a few weeks. Just chill and let 'em adjust. Maybe add some root tabs if you're using inert substrate.

starluna wrote: ↑Tue May 27, 2025 9:01 am I had the same issue when I started my 15-gallon. It's usually the transition shock. Try reducing the light to 6 hours and dose some liquid carbon. Also, make sure your temp isn't too high, around 76F works for me.

Thanks, I'll try cutting the light and grabbing some liquid carbon. Temp's at 78F, so I'll lower it a bit.

Glad to help! Another thing, if you're using tap water, check the KH and GH. Some plants like softer water, and high mineral content can stress 'em out. I use RO water with a remineralizer for my more sensitive plants.

Dude, RO water is a game-changer. My tank was sketchy until I switched. Also, don't freak out if the melt keeps going for a bit. Plants are weird like that. They'll come back stronger.

Bakero wrote: ↑Tue May 27, 2025 3:42 pm Dude, RO water is a game-changer. My tank was sketchy until I switched. Also, don't freak out if the melt keeps going for a bit. Plants are weird like that. They'll come back stronger.

Exactly! Patience is key. I've seen tanks where everything melted but regrew lush in a month. Just keep up with water changes and don't over-fertilize.

Yep, over-fertilizing is a no-go. I nuked my first tank with too much Excel. Lesson learned. Now I stick to half doses until the plants settle in.