Fertilization that works for me gosh darn it

[colby]

I have the CO2 at about 20 PPM, I have 3 wpg. I'm heavily planted. BUT, I'm lacking in the fert dept.

OK. So how about this idea? Using test kits: I can test for phosphate. I can test for nitrate. If they are too low, as needed, I can add the dry fertilizers (potassium nitrate or mono potassium phosphate) as needed. I will use a target level based on a nitrate level of 10-20 ppm, and a phosphate level of 1-2 ppm. Right now, both are about 0 so adding will only bring it up there. Eventually based one usage by my plants and my typical water change I will arrive at my own regimen. Will this approach work? Thanks.

 

[Canuck]

Maybe. How's that for a definitive answer.:headbang2:

It sounds alot like the PPS dosing strategy toted on www.aquaticplantcentral.com. I'm more of a fan of the EI system for the following 2 reasons. Using this theory, you are pretty reliant on your test kits. Hobbyist kits accuracy can be pretty iffy by times. I've never seen many problems by overdosing some nutrients, the problem lies when nutrients fall short of where they should be and this can happen with the test kits we use. The second problem I see, is the necessity for constant testing. Uptake rates can change based on increased plant mass or growth rates which can change for any number of reasons in our tanks. This will mean that testing plays a never ending important component in practice.

That said many are successful with strategies, I'd never even try, so if you are inclined go for it and best of luck.

Dave