No ferts no Co2 plants

[PygmyPepperJulli]

Sorry for the really late response.

I might try out the spikes, or might just drop the crypts. I think I try out different aquascapes too much for them

Byron, do you think that it would be better to have the soil and have it degrade, or have no ferts at all? I mean, are there any nutrients that the fish couldn't provide that the dirt could?

By the sounds of it, Val, hornwort and floaters are my best bet! And maybe clover fern if I can find any... Am I the only one that thinks dwarf saggitaria looks exactly like mini vals?

 

[Byron]

Byron, do you think that it would be better to have the soil and have it degrade, or have no ferts at all? I mean, are there any nutrients that the fish couldn't provide that the dirt could?

No to the last question. The only benefit, and I mean only benefit, to having some form of soil is the initial CO2 from the organics in the soil. But this is not permanent. Even Diana Walstad who is the champion of soil substrates admits in her book and articles that after one year, there is no benefit left to soil over inert sand. None. So it is creating a mess for no reason. There is an influx of ammonia at the start, and most online authorities recommend a dry start and no fish in the tank for six months to get around this. But aside from additional CO2, there is no benefit. And substrate fish, especially those that like to dig, are out. Cories can have serious bacterial issues with any form of "plant" substrate.

It is simple enough to use fertilizers, whether substrate tabs for plants like large swords, or liquid. Just to ensure some of the micro-nutrients are present.

 

[Gamegurl564]

I use the Jobe spikes as well for my Red Lotus.
This plant is amazing as far as fast growing and gorgeous.
At this point in time I have just 4 Corys in my 29.
The Java ferns Anubias, Christmas moss, Ludwigia and Pogostomen are all growing great with ferts every couple months.