Macro N and P

[clsh]

Hi,

I have read that macro nutrients consist of N P and K.
if my nitrate readings are 10ppm, do I still need dose N?
if I feed my fish regularly, do I still need to dose P?


Regards,
clsh

[Urban Aquaria]

If your nitrates are maintaining steady at 10ppm before and after the daily photoperiod... it indicates the tank's nitrate production level is sufficient for the plants usage.

Phosphate can come from fish food, but the actual levels depend on type of food (some foods have more phosphate content, some have less), so you have to measure with a test kit to actually know for sure.

The other way to know is to simply observe the plants, if they show signs of phosphate deficiency, then just have to dose fertilizers to supplement.

[Cmlee]

My problem is I have too high nitrate . After weeks of water change also the same :0

[ronald_t80]

I rather be in your shoes..... mine got 0ppm no matter if I feed the fishes twice a day. End up bought Seachem Nitrogen. .... hopefully it can helps.
btw UA.... any idea what's the best way to dose the nitrogen?....

[Urban Aquaria]

btw UA.... any idea what's the best way to dose the nitrogen?....

Just dose the recommended amount as listed on the bottle for a start... then increase dosage if you find that the plants require more to grow.

This is all about observation, as long as your plants are growing well and not showing deficiencies, it indicates they are getting enough nutrients (even though nitrates show zero on test, it may just be between 1-4ppm which is less detectable). Just have to adjust dosages accordingly. Dosing nitrogen (and other ferts) is mainly to ensure thatcthe plants don't fall into a state of deficiency.

[barmby]

It is not recommended to rely on test kit for reading of the nitrate. The real good test kit is expensive used for industrial use. Those selling in LFS are mostly to see the fish will be harmed or not. Most often and not - its too late for plant or the planted tank where the tank become infested with algae. Have fun . 5 to 10 ppm is minute detail