I have a 20 gal. long (2.75 watts/gal, DIY CO2, KH = 6.5) tank that was set up a few months ago - my first high light planted tank. I dose regularly with the SeaChem products and try to keep NO3 at 5-10 ppm, PO4 at 1 ppm. Right now I am growing Ludwigia, Rotala, java moss and java fern. I may not keep all of these plant species long-term, but I feel like they are forgiving while a "learn the ropes" with a high light tank.
I have noticed that many of my stem plants have developed "bare" roots above the substrate, and that the bottoms of the stems are rotting away. Since these roots are somewhat unsigtly, I was wondering what the problem is and what I can do to inhibit this above substrate root growth. I should mention that I been using Fluorite substrate by itself, but about one week ago I added some 1-3 mm course sand since I thought the large and "rough" Fluorite might be causing this problem. Any advice?
I have noticed that many of my stem plants have developed "bare" roots above the substrate, and that the bottoms of the stems are rotting away. Since these roots are somewhat unsigtly, I was wondering what the problem is and what I can do to inhibit this above substrate root growth. I should mention that I been using Fluorite substrate by itself, but about one week ago I added some 1-3 mm course sand since I thought the large and "rough" Fluorite might be causing this problem. Any advice?