How do I properly care for aquarium plants?

Aquarium plant care starts with stable water conditions: pH between 6.5 and 7.5, temperature 72-78F (21-26C). Test weekly for ammonia and nitrates. Plants need their dose of carbon dioxide, light, and nutrients to photosynthesise effectively, and healthy specimens go further than algae in supporting your fish.

Substrate Selection- The substrate that you choose will help determine what plants will thrive. Nutrient-rich substrates enable heavy-feeding plants, such as Amazon swords or cabomba, to flourish. As a general rule of thumb, use inert sand for foreground plants. Use root tabs every three months. If you have carpeting species like glosso, keep this layer around 1-2 inches. Stem plants do better with deeper anchoring.

Prune your plants regularly to encourage new growth. For stem plants, that means cutting those plants just above a leaf node with sharp scissors. For rhizome plants, look to remove the yellowing leaves near the base of the plant. Never, ever bury Anubias rhizomes. Trimming helps prevent decay and allows for better light penetration. Ensure you clean your scissors/tools after each use.

Algae. Attack immediately. Green algae may indicate excessive light or nutrients, so consider shortening your photoperiods or introducing some floating plants. Brown algae, and especially black, banal algae, suggest a silicate problem, so fit some resin-absorbing silicates. Black algae indicate that some of your plants have received a liquid carbon treatment, but don't stop there; fertilize according to the response.

The health of the aquarium is reflected in the condition of your plants. If they are growing and reproducing, it indicates there is a good balance in the tank. Begin with hardy plants, such as Java Fern, and move on to more challenging plants when you feel comfortable. If you continually provide reliable care, you will develop a self-sustaining aquatic ecosystem.

Read the full article: Essential Aquarium Plant Care Guide