View Full Version : KENT Freshwater Essential vs. other additives
drsyn67
08-08-2008, 8:36 AM
Can anyone advise me on the usefulness of Kent Freshwater Essential? I am curious if it replaces or is similar to a Seachem product in purpose. I have read its description, and it is recommended by some online fish dealers as necessary with some fish. I have a planted tank and am already on a schedule with additives such as Excel, Florish, Iron and Phosphorus - all by Seachem and I am curious if the Kent product is really necessary. Thanks.
I would not add that stuff to what you are already using. It would probably be redundant to some extent and would just make the water a bit harder by adding many of the minerals already found in tap water.
Hurley
08-08-2008, 1:28 PM
I have a planted tank and don't use it. I think what you are adding, along with proper weekly water changes should be enough for your tank. Your water changes should help replenish the trace minerals your plants need.
I would just stick to what your using.
Mgamer20o0
08-08-2008, 3:00 PM
Kent Freshwater Essential is basically Seachem Flourish.
your adding excel for carbon flourish trace Iron and Phosphorus..... still missing 2 ferts that might be needed. also you can mix your own ferts. i buy dry ones and mix them up.
drsyn67
08-08-2008, 7:24 PM
Thanks for your replies. I realize there are additional ferts that might be useful, but have yet to proceed with them.
Mgamer20o0
08-09-2008, 12:43 AM
pnk is more important then the trace and iron
jones57742
08-09-2008, 3:57 AM
ds:
This is kinda off topic but is a reinforcement of Mg's posts.
I once used liquid ferts but dry fert's, IMHO, are really the only way to go.
TR
The liquids work well, but they are really expensive, since your really just buying water and a plastic bottle. I wouldnt go any other way than Dry for macros and iron, but I do like Seachem flourish for my traces.
I think the importance of this thread is providing your plants a complete set of nutrients however you can. NPK, your macros should be first, then a complete set of traces.
drsyn67
08-09-2008, 9:33 AM
Thanks again folks - I'm on it - had just read the Estimative Index after making this post - sorry to employ your ears to the same old questions.
If do go by EI method dosing, test for phosphate and nitrate. I found that I dont need to supplement my tanks with phosphorus at all. There is enough phosphate in my tap and the fish food, but I need to add nitrate and potassium regularly. The PMDD (poor man's daily dose) mix is really good too btw, and incredibly cheap to make at $20+ for a year+ supply.