How to Care for 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.

Things You'll Need

  • Scissors
  • Long Stick
  • Water
  • Anti-chlorine or Water Conditioners
  • Aquatic Plant Fertilizers
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Instructions

  1. Do Regular Check-ups

    • 1

      Trim or prune dead or damaged leaves and branches.

    • 2

      Propagate by cutting or separating new growth.

    • 3

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

    Perform Regular Water Changes

    • 4

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

    • 5

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

    • 6

      Consider adding fertilizer to the water if appropriate.

    Fertilize

    • 7

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

    • 8

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

    • 9

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