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I've got a tank with a pH around 5.5, and I'm struggling to find plants that thrive in these conditions. Any suggestions for low pH plants that won't melt or stunt? My tank is a 20 gallon with soft water, CO2 injection, and medium lighting. Substrate is Fluval Stratum.

I've had good luck with Cryptocoryne Wendtii in my low pH tank. It's not fussy and spreads slowly. My pH is around 5.8, and they've been growing steadily for months. What's your water change routine like?

Hey, don't stress too much about it! Low pH can be tricky, but Anubias and Java Fern are pretty chill. They'll grow slow but steady. Just make sure they're not buried in the substrate, or they'll rot. You got this!

For a pH of 5.5, consider Bucephalandra. They're hardy and adapt well to acidic conditions. Ensure your lighting isn't too intense, as they prefer shaded areas. Also, monitor your CO2 levels, as excessive CO2 can further drop pH unpredictably.

Yeah, Bucephalandra is a solid pick. I've got some in my tank, and they're doing great, even with my lazy water change schedule. Just don't mess with them too much, they hate being moved around.

My tank's pH is around 5.7, and I've had success with Amazon Swords. They're kinda slow to start but once they take off, they're unstoppable. Just gotta keep an eye on nutrient levels, especially iron.

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I'll try adding some Bucephalandra and Cryptocoryne Wendtii. Appreciate the help!

MoonFox wrote: ↑Fri Aug 22, 2025 1:15 pm Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I'll try adding some Bucephalandra and Cryptocoryne Wendtii. Appreciate the help!

No problem! Let us know how it goes. Oh, and if you're using root tabs, stick them near the Crypts, they love extra nutrients.

Seriously, don't overthink it. Plants are tougher than they look. Just keep the water clean and stable, and they'll figure it out. You're doing great!

paulos wrote: ↑Fri Aug 22, 2025 12:37 pm My tank's pH is around 5.7, and I've had success with Amazon Swords. They're kinda slow to start but once they take off, they're unstoppable. Just gotta keep an eye on nutrient levels, especially iron.

Amazon Swords can work, but they're heavy root feeders. If you go that route, ensure your substrate is nutrient-rich or supplement with root tabs regularly.