Root fertilizers for aquarium plants: how to get a beautiful and healthy aquarium?

Healthy plants are essential to creating a vibrant, lovely aquarium. Using root fertilizers is one of the best ways to make sure your aquatic plants remain lush and colorful. These particular nutrients are vital for robust growth and rich, green foliage because they supply the vital minerals and vitamins that plants absorb through their roots.

There are several different types of root fertilizers, such as liquids, tablets, and pellets. They should be positioned in the substrate so that plant roots can readily reach them. You can help your aquarium plants grow well and compete with algae by using these fertilizers. Algae often appears when plants are deficient in certain nutrients.

Your plants’ health can be significantly impacted by selecting the appropriate root fertilizer. To ensure the safety of your fish and other aquatic life, look for products that are specifically made for aquarium use. Your aquarium can become a lush, colorful underwater garden that highlights the beauty of your aquatic setup by adding these fertilizers on a regular basis and paying attention to your plants’ needs.

Advantages of root dressings

While some hobbyists choose not to use dressings, seasoned aquascapers—those who create living compositions in aquariums—advise against doing so.

Fish waste products can provide plants with the elements needed for growth, but adding dressings greatly enhances the growth and appearance of the plants.

It is fascinating to watch the aquarium as it changes and gets more and more beautiful. Fertilizers are a need if the tank has a sufficient volume and a high plant population; otherwise, the growth of the flora representatives will slow down and they will become weak and unimpressive.

You can add fertilizers meant for aquarium plants to the soil or the water.

Since flora representatives are better at absorbing nutrients from the soil, the second option—known as root feeding—is thought to be better. This is particularly true for specimens and bushes that have well-developed root systems. The following uses of fertilizers exist:

• creating a normal biological atmosphere in the aquarium;
• improving the survival rate of plants during planting and transplanting;

• activating root growth and saturating them with macro- and microelements;
• protecting plants from diseases.

The most essential nutrients for plants—phosphates, nitrates, potassium, iron, nitrogen, manganese, etc.—are found in feedings in the ideal ratios.

The process of using them is very easy: you just need to mix the mixture into the soil, and within a few weeks, the plants’ roots will start to absorb the nutrients.

As overfertilizers are just as bad for plants as underfertilizers, feedings should only be added in accordance with manufacturer and knowledgeable aquascaper recommendations.

12 best root fertilizers for an aquarium

The main difference between root fertilizers is that they are produced in the form of tablets, balls and sticks. After introducing into the soil, they dissolve and saturate the roots of plants with nutrients.

Famous producers among aquarists (Tetra, Sera, JBL, Aquayer, and T.D.) products from this category are manufactured in a sufficient assortment so that lovers of aquarium plants can choose the right one.

Tetra Plant Initial Sticks

When starting an aquarium, use a complex fertilizer to replenish the nutrients that the soil is lacking. Humus, which contains elements required by plants, is its foundation.

They take root quickly and prevent the growth of algae, which is particularly beneficial for novice aquarists who are unsure of how to handle them.

The product is devoid of substances that pose a risk to fish health, contaminate water, or contain phosphates or nitrates. One gram of fertilizer per liter of water is the recommended dosage.

The fertilizer has no drawbacks, but the manufacturer advises that it should only be used to start a new aquarium; for feeding an already-existing one, other fertilizers are preferable.

Tetra Plant Crypto

Fertilizer in tablet form with microelements that are readily absorbed. They effectively support the microflora and are tailored to the needs of the soil.

It is highly iron-rich and stays available to plants for a considerable amount of time. Fish can safely consume the feed (even if they swallow the granules), and it keeps algae from growing and polluting the water.

One tablet should be used for every twenty liters of water, and the preparation should be added to the plants that require it.

The product has no drawbacks, but it can cause algae to grow quickly when used as a nutrient layer in a fresh aquarium.

Tetra Plant Plantstart

Expert aquarists say that the feed is perfect for setting up a new aquarium. It is made as tablets that include the essential macro- and microelements along with a growth-promoting plant hormone.

Additionally, the product fortifies and safeguards plant roots, assisting in their fastest possible recovery in the event of damage.

The product is very convenient to use because it is reasonably priced and comes in inexpensive packaging. The effects of the fertilizer are long-lasting; they appear over a few weeks and then disappear.

Sera Flore Plus

A growth enhancer that accelerates development, fortifies the root system, enhances appearance, and boosts disease resistance.

The fertilizer is a well-balanced mixture that has every element required by aquarium plants.

Contains no phosphates, nitrates, or other harmful materials that could poison the aquarium’s occupants. It also inhibits the growth of algae.

The product comes in tablet form; one piece should be used for every 20 liters of water; it needs to be pressed into the ground close to the roots.

The fertilizer works best when combined with other Sera fertilizers.

Sera Florenette A

A comprehensive fertilizer containing the nutrients and iron required by the majority of aquarium plants.

It is marketed as a tablet and "acts" as a storage space for significant microelements that are gradually released, dissolved, and transformed into a form that is flora-accessible.

As a result, plants grow healthily, receive nourishment for an extended period of time, and maintain their appealing appearance. One tablet should be taken and pressed into the ground close to the root system for every twenty liters of water.

Even with the best fertilizers, plants require regular care, aeration, and the right amount of light to grow normally. A single application of fertilizer is insufficient.

JBL Ferrotabs

Tablet-based concentrated complex fertilizer for aquariums. removes iron deficiency, which is particularly harmful to plants, and provides them with additional essential nutrients.

The tablet needs to be inserted into the soil (ideally in a location with good flow), just like other root fertilizers. Once in the soil, the tablet will dissolve and release nutrients.

After performing an iron test, it is advised to apply the fertilizer every four weeks at a dosage of one tablet per 25 liters of water.

JBL Die 7+13

The fertilizer is made up of balls that are packed with microelements, such as iron, and nutrients.

They are simple to use, particularly when you have an aquarium that is already running and you need to feed the plants specifically.

An additional benefit is that the fertilizer balances the amount of nutrients in the aquarium; if the water contains too much iron, the balls will absorb it; if a microelement is lacking, they will release it. The product is entirely natural and devoid of any substances that could endanger living things.

AQUAYER UDO Ermolaeva tablets

Feeding the soil, which works particularly well for bush plants that get their nourishment from the soil.

All the necessary components for growth are present in the composition, such as iron, calcium, nitrogen, zinc, phosphorus, etc. Additionally, the effect lasts for six months.

They are applied in amounts ranging from one to ten pieces to the soil close to the plant roots; the larger the bush, the more fertilizer will be required. The tablets break down right away, giving plants long-lasting, high-quality nutrition.

Dennerle Power Tabs

A well-known brand of root fertilizer that encourages the quick and lush growth of aquarium plants.

It is particularly useful for specimens with a developed root system as it promotes the formation of new roots.

The purpose of clay substances is to store nutrients; as they dissolve over time, the slow release of active ingredients is encouraged.

Algae do not grow when fed, and 1-2 tablets will suffice for six to twelve months.

Dennerle Deponit NutriBalls

Feeding in the shape of balls, which is intended to fortify the roots of established aquarium plants and hasten the growth of newly planted ones.

Does not damage the aquarium’s microflora because it is made without the use of phosphates or nitrates and contains iron and other microelements.

Dosage: 1-4 balls, depending on size, per plant.

API Root Tabs Plant

• Feeding in the form of tablets, which contains two of the most important components for plant development – iron and potassium.
• It promotes the growth of new specimens, supports and protects already rooted ones. After using the fertilizer, the plants become lush, bright and attractive.

• The product is safe for fish and does not contain harmful compounds. The only drawback that users found is the not very convenient dosage.
• To obtain the result, 6 tablets are needed for a small aquarium (38 liters), and they must be added every month, so in the end it turns out to be quite expensive.

Tropica Nutrition Capsules

Fertilizer in pill form with potassium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, and nitrogen.

They are made up of three different kinds of granules: the first two contain macro- and microelements in a way that is easily absorbed by plants, while the third kind enhances the quality of the aging substrate, encourages the growth of good bacteria, and inhibits oxidative processes.

There are ten capsules in each pack. To use them, bury them in the ground at a distance of ten to fifteen centimeters.

Fish can consume the grains if you don’t add the tablets and balls to the aquarium soil quickly enough because they will dissolve and stop "working" properly.

Cost of feeding from different manufacturers

Manufacturer	Price, RUB.
Tetra Plant Initial Sticks	425
Tetra Plant Crypto	385
Tetra Plant Plantstart	570
Sera Flore Plus	200
Sera Florenette A	362
JBL Ferrotabs	480
JBL Die 7+13	490
AQUAYER UDO Ermolaeva tablets	270
Dennerle Power Tabs	480
Dennerle Deponit NutriBalls	580
API Root Tabs Plant	780
Tropica Nutrition Capsules	490

Choosing the appropriate root fertilizers for your aquarium plants is crucial to creating a colorful and healthy ecosystem. These fertilizers improve the overall appearance of your tank and help your plants grow lush and healthy by supplying essential nutrients straight to the roots. You can guarantee that your aquatic plants thrive, support a healthy ecosystem, and create a stunning focal point for your home aquarium by selecting and applying fertilizer correctly.

Which fertilizer to choose

Based on reviews, it appears that nearly all fertilizers from reputable companies work well, so the decision usually comes down to price and product availability.

Tetra fertilizers are considered high-quality, but quite expensive, and API fertilizers have a high consumption rate and a short shelf life.

Sergey Ermolaev, well-known among aquarists, recommends choosing the brand and optimal amount of fertilizer empirically, observing the condition of the plants.

Branded fertilizers VS homemade fertilizers

There are two types of aquarists: those who prefer making their own fertilizer and those who use branded products. The primary distinction between them is price; hand-prepared mixtures are far less expensive.

In addition, they require a lot of time to prepare, whereas ready-made fertilizers can be applied right away. Additionally, in order to prevent the product from doing more harm than good, you will need to search for ingredients for homemade fertilizers and closely follow the proportions.

While it can be challenging to decide between homemade and branded fertilizers, Sergey Ermolaev, the creator of aquarium preparations, suggests that beginning aquarists stick with ready-made solutions. Those who enjoy experimenting and have a solid understanding of chemistry can use homemade fertilizers.

It is much easier to buy mixtures in stores for aquarium owners who appreciate the aesthetic aspect of their hobby rather than preparing their own.

Root fertilizer recipe

The foundation of homemade fertilizer is clay. It is available from any pharmacy; it is a component of cosmetic masks.

One advantage of clay is that it can be mutually "charged" with nutrients, which will eventually dissolve in water. In other words, the clay will release a microelement from the water if there is not enough of it and will absorb it if there is an excess.

There are various varieties of clay, each with unique characteristics and colors.

Red clay contains a large amount of silicates, so it is not able to exchange useful substances with plants.

White clay is better suited for creating fertilizers, and the best option is blue.

It’s crucial to choose clay that isn’t greasy; the substance should dissolve slowly in water rather than solidifying into a lump.

There are several ways to prepare fertilizer. For an aquarium, the most popular mixture calls for clay, peat, and liquid fertilizer.

Clay and peat are mixed in equal proportions, after which liquid fertilizer is added so that a dough is obtained from which balls the size of a 1-kopeck coin can be molded.

They need to be dried in the sun or on a radiator (it is not recommended to put them in the oven), and then used as root feeding.

You can combine root feeding in tablet form with clay to create clay balls. Clay can help with the issue of aquarists dissolving quickly in the ground, which is a common complaint. The preparation procedure is the same as described above, but in order to get the dough, the clay needs to be diluted slightly with distilled water.

Root Fertilizers	Benefits
Root Tabs	Provide nutrients directly to plant roots, supporting growth and health.
Clay Balls	Slow-release nutrients, help improve soil structure and plant uptake.
Granular Fertilizers	Even distribution of nutrients, easy to use for various plants.
Liquid Fertilizers	Quick nutrient absorption, ideal for supplementing root fertilizers.
Organic Fertilizers	Natural nutrient sources, improve soil health and plant growth.
DIY Fertilizers	Customizable nutrient mix, cost-effective and often eco-friendly.

The importance of root fertilizers in producing a beautiful and healthy aquarium cannot be emphasized. These fertilizers give your aquatic plants the vital nutrients they need to grow strong and colorful roots. You can guarantee that your plants have all they require to thrive by effectively supplying these nutrients, which also helps to maintain a healthier aquarium environment overall.

Selecting the proper kind of root fertilizer is essential. There are several options available, including sticks, capsules, and specialty soil additives. Depending on your particular setup and the kinds of plants you’re cultivating, each type has advantages of its own. For larger tanks with rooted plants, for example, root tabs are an excellent option; for more even dispersal, powder forms can be mixed straight into the substrate.

Recall that although root fertilizers are necessary, using them in an aquarium requires a balanced approach. Maintaining good water quality, doing regular water changes, and adequate lighting are all important for the health of your aquarium plants. You can improve the overall health and aesthetic appeal of your aquarium by creating a lush, beautiful underwater landscape by combining these techniques with efficient root fertilization.

Video on the topic

Root feeding of aquarium plants

Feeding plants with Aquayer root fertilizers in an aquarium

Clay balls for feeding aquarium plants

Root feeding of aquarium plants, clay balls, wabikus.

Duration of action of Tetra and Aquayer root fertilizers

Root feeding in an aquarium

Let"s summarize the use of root fertilizers in an aquarium

Root fertilizers for aquarium plants in tablets.