How long does it take for aquarium plant fertilizer to take effect?

Question

2 days ago, I put some Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Leaf Zone into my 2.5 gallon tank.  Since my tank is so small, I basically ended up putting the equivalent of a couple of drops.  I think my tank is extremely deficient in nutrients since the leaves are turning white/light green.  Should I put in more fertilizer?  I don't want to put in too much because I don't want an algae disaster.  I have plenty of light, 12watts worth of a flourescent light.  So anyone have any idea how long it'd take for a plant fertilizer to take any effect?  I have Giant Hydro and it's suppose to be super fast growing but mine doesn't seem to be growing very fast.  It's not dying but it's not really thriving either.

Zoe · Accepted Answer

You should see noticeable results within the next few days.
I'm surprised that you need to use ferts at all. I have a 3 gallon tank packed full with java moss, java fern, naja grass and some sunset hygro (not hydro) and it's all growing like crazy. I use no ferts and have about 9 watts of light.
The problem might be with the fact that you have giant hygro.  Giant hygro is a big plant, a healthy plant will be taller than your tank is. You might want to look into smaller types of plants that might be more appropriate for your tank size like java moss / fern, java grass, anubias v. nana, micro sword, glossotigma, sunset hygro.
As for ferts, if you're using them, don't follow the directions on the bottle (they encourage you to use way too much so you'll have to buy more).  Next week, use one drop more than you did this week, etc, until you notice a slight algae formation, then cut back by 1-2 drops.  Ferts aren't an exact science, you more or less have to go by your plants and how they look.

How long does it take for aquarium plant fertilizer to take effect?

Related Questions

Trending Questions