The Complete Guide to Planted Aquarium Maintenance

 

Introduction

Maintaining a thriving planted aquarium requires balancing three key elements: water quality, nutrient supply, and lighting. This guide covers best practices for each aspect to help aquarists achieve lush aquatic plant growth while maintaining ecosystem stability.

I. Water Change Protocol

  1. Frequency & Volume
    • Established tanks: 25-30% weekly or 50% biweekly
    • New setups: 50% twice weekly for first month
    • Use temperature-matched, dechlorinated water
  2. Proper Technique
    • Vacuum substrate gently to remove debris
    • Clean filter media in removed tank water
    • Avoid disturbing plant roots during cleaning
  3. Water Parameter Monitoring
    • Test pH, GH, KH weekly
    • Maintain stable temperature (±1°C)
    • Target nitrate <20ppm, phosphate 0.5-2ppm

II. Fertilization Strategy

  1. Macronutrients
    • Nitrogen (NO3): 10-20ppm
    • Phosphorus (PO4): 0.5-2ppm
    • Potassium (K): 10-20ppm
  2. Micronutrients
    • Iron (Fe): 0.1-0.5ppm (critical for red plants)
    • Trace element mix (Mn, Zn, Cu, etc.)
  3. Application Methods
    • Liquid fertilizers: Daily or alternate day dosing
    • Root tabs: Replace every 3-6 months
    • CO2 injection: Maintain 20-30ppm (with proper aeration)

III. Lighting Optimization

  1. Intensity Guidelines
    • Low light: 15-30 PAR (mosses, anubias)
    • Medium light: 30-50 PAR (most stem plants)
    • High light: 50+ PAR (carpet plants, red species)
  2. Photoperiod Management
    • 6-8 hours for high-tech tanks with CO2
    • 8-10 hours for low-tech setups
    • Use timer for consistent schedule
    • Include 1-2 hour midday break (optional)
  3. Light Spectrum Selection
    • 6500K white for natural appearance
    • Supplemental red/blue for plant growth
    • Adjustable LED systems recommended

Maintenance Schedule

Task

Frequency

Notes

Water change

Weekly

25-30% volume

Fertilization

Daily/Alternate

Adjust based on tests

Filter clean

Monthly

Use tank water

Pruning

Biweekly

Remove dead leaves

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Algae blooms: Reduce light duration, check nutrient balance
  • Poor growth: Verify CO2 levels, increase fertilization
  • Melting plants: Ensure stable parameters, check KH/GH