Common Planted Aquarium Misconception

Common Planted Aquarium Misconception is that plants are difficult to grow!

We get to speak to a LOT of customers throughout the day and most of the calls are regarding problems with plant growth however it is a Common Planted Aquarium Misconception.

"Aquarium plants are difficult to grow"

"My plants keep getting algae"

"My plants keep dying"

These are just a few of the issues customers call up about however they are not difficult to grow at all, you just have to grow them in the right way and it is simply a Common Planted Aquarium Misconception.

1. Is your lighting on too long?

The problem here is that people overestimate how much light aquarium plants actually need throughout the day and end up flooding their plants with light.  Plants make their food through photosynthesis and nutrients will give them. Maximum lighting duration is 8 hours per day and if you have algae problems drop that to 6 hours (and don't forget minumum water changes per week is 30%).

Another Common Planted Aquarium Misconception is that Red plants hard very difficult.  Red plants will need most amount of light so make sure you place any red plants directly under the light and not overshadowed by larger plants especially those with large leaves such as Echinodorus. Lighter green plants are fine with a little bit less than red plants and dark green plants such as Microsorums, Anubias and come Crypts such as the Wendtii varieties cope with the least.  Another thing to consider with your lighting is some lights are only designed to last between 6-12 months so they will need replacing in time so if you are thinking your plants are starting to take a downward turn and you have had your bulbs for a while, it may be time to replace them.

Red plants such as this Alternanthera cardinalis variegata will require a decent amount of light.

This Java Fern will require the least amount of light as they have drak green leaves.

2. Are you fertilising enough?

Another reason for this Common Planted Aquarium Misconception is that some people are just not fertilising their plants enough. Whether you are fertilising liquid form or using root tabs this needs to be done regularly. This is why with recommend Neutro T & Neutro CO2 as you dose daily which gives you a chance to look over and check your plants and aquatic life on a daily basis thus keeping on top of things.

3. Are your plants overcrowed?

Also another Common Planted Aquarium Misconception that plants are hard to grow is caused by overcrowding. Plants will need to be trimmed and nipped back to allow sufficent light to get to all plants.  We recommed this is done on a weekly basis to ensure that you keep your plants in the best shape and condition.

So with the right substrate, lights and fertilisation it is just a Common Planted Aquarium Misconception that they are difficult to grow!

Any questions regarding this we will be happy to assist, just call us on 01363 77 4787.

You too could have an aquarium that looks as healthy as this one.