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My Anubias and Java Fern are looking super droopy lately. Tank's a 20 gallon, got a Fluval light running 8 hours a day, and I do weekly water changes. Parameters are 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. What's the deal?

Droopy plants? Sounds like they're not vibing with your setup. How old's your substrate? Sometimes that stuff gets exhausted and plants just nope out. Also, what's your water hardness? Anubias can be picky about that.

I've had similar issues before. Your lighting might be too intense for Anubias, they prefer lower light. Try reducing the photoperiod to 6 hours or dimming the light if possible. How's the flow in your tank? Strong currents can stress them out.

Are you using any fertilizers? Plants can droop if they're missing key nutrients. I'd recommend a balanced liquid fertilizer if you're not already using one. Also, check for any signs of algae, which can compete with plants for nutrients.

Droopy plants often indicate a nutrient deficiency or poor root health. What substrate are you using? If it's inert, you might need root tabs. Also, ensure your water changes are consistent, as fluctuating parameters can stress plants.

Yo, my plants did the same thing when I slacked on water changes. You sure you're keeping up with that? Also, maybe cut back on the light a bit, like fluxxer said. Plants need their beauty sleep too, haha.

voltara wrote: ↑Wed Jun 25, 2025 5:07 am Droopy plants? Sounds like they're not vibing with your setup. How old's your substrate? Sometimes that stuff gets exhausted and plants just nope out. Also, what's your water hardness? Anubias can be picky about that.

Substrate's about a year old, and my water's pretty soft. Maybe I should look into root tabs like kayaklover suggested.

Soft water can be tricky for Anubias. They prefer slightly harder water. You might want to consider adding a bit of crushed coral to your filter to bump up the hardness. Also, how's your CO2 levels? Low CO2 can cause drooping.

fluxxer wrote: ↑Wed Jun 25, 2025 10:36 am Soft water can be tricky for Anubias. They prefer slightly harder water. You might want to consider adding a bit of crushed coral to your filter to bump up the hardness. Also, how's your CO2 levels? Low CO2 can cause drooping.

Yeah, CO2's a biggie. If you're not running any, plants can't photosynthesize properly. Maybe try a liquid carbon supplement if you're not ready for a full CO2 setup.

If you're considering root tabs, I'd recommend Seachem Flourish Tabs. They've worked wonders for my tank. Also, make sure your plants aren't buried too deep in the substrate. Anubias rhizomes need to be above the substrate to thrive.