[Seattle_Aquarist]

Hi jmhart,

I have very soft water here in Seattle and was having trouble with the new growth of my plants, especially my stem plants, even when dosing PPS Pro.

The growth was very slow and the new leaves were small and deformed. I found this link:
http://www.finostrom.com.gr/images/aqua/fertilizers/map.htm
and determined it was likely either calcium or magnesium deficiency. I treated my tank with MgSO4 and CaCl. Now my plants are growing much faster, and the leaves are normal size and shape.

 

[Seattle_Aquarist]

Because I didn't want to overdose, I dosed MgSO4 and CaCl at 1/2 the amount recommended on Rex Grigg's site. http://www.bestaquariumregulator.com/dosing.html
I saw results in about a week. Since I do water changes regularly, I figure I will have to do it again as I remove the Ca and Mg with the water changes.

Picked up the MgSO4 (Epsom Salts) at Bartells and food grade CaCl (as well as food grade CaSO4) at a local wine / beer brewing supplies shop. I chose to use the CaCl because it dissolves clear while the CaSO4 dissolves "milky". Hope this helps!