How to Care for Aquarium Plants

Contributor

By Ruby Bayan
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (15 Ratings)

Aquarium Plants

Freshwater aquarium plants need as much care and maintenance as the fish that are in the tank. The growth and well-being of your aquatic plants will depend on your attention to their nutrition and environmental needs. Here's how to care for them.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Aquatic Plant Fertilizers

Do Regular Check-ups

Step 1

Trim or prune dead or damaged leaves and branches.
Step 2

Propagate by cutting or separating new growth.
Step 3

Remove snails that could quickly multiply and feast on your foliage.

Perform Regular Water Changes

Step 1

Water change.

Schedule a weekly change of about 20 percent of the water volume.
Step 2

De-chlorinate and check the temperature of the new water before introducing it into the tank.
Step 3

Consider adding fertilizer to the water if appropriate.

Fertilize

Step 1

Choose aquatic plant fertilizers that are rich in nutrients like iron and potassium. They are available as pellets and in liquid form.
Step 2

Follow the product instructions on the quantity, schedule and manner of applying these fertilizers.
Step 3

Consider acquiring substrates that are mixed with laterite clay, which is specifically beneficial for tank vegetation.

Tips & Warnings

Some serious aquatic plant enthusiasts introduce CO2 into the tank to boost the plant systems. Inquire from your vendor about this option.
When using water conditioners and anti-chlorine treatments, never pour them directly on the plants.

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