mixing plant and fish water

[shawmutt]

Can I use the same container I use to water my plants for my fish water? I found a really nice container, it holds 6 gallons, and looks like a narrow gas can (the red plastic type)--including the nozzle to pour. I use a very weak fertilizer mixture to water the plants. Will the fertilizer hurt or poison the fish?

 

[kbd517]

Shawmutt- I wouldn't- plant fert is probably not great for fish, and may lead to water chemistry issues- and maybe even cause an algae problem.
Kristen

 

[mendhigirl]

I always water my plants with the used tank water when I do a water change.I always figured it was like natural fertilizer.My plants love it.

 

[shawmutt]

I can't use my tank water because it's too acidic...it's around 6.4

 

[mendhigirl]

My goldfish tank is 6.6.Not on purpose.I just couldn't get the pH to go up,so I decided to leave it alone,since the fishes didn't seem to mind.My plants don't seem to mind either.

 

[shawmutt]

hmmm...maybe I'll try it, it would make me feel better about all those gallons of water I dump down the toilet every two weeks. Thanks!

 

[kbd517]

Shawmutt, I may have misunderstood... I interpreted what you wrote as you wanted to use the pitcher you use to fertilize and water your plants to add water to your tank- I still wouldn't do that, but if your question is can you use tank water to water plants, the answer is a qualified yes- I've done that many times myself- but it helps if your water chem is stable, and you don't use a lot of extra chemicals/medications, because some can screw up the plants.
Kristen

 

[shawmutt]

No, no...sorry I have a habit of digressing in forums...

I interpreted what you wrote as you wanted to use the pitcher you use to fertilize and water your plants to add water to your tank

This was my original question.

 

[Bearfan]

Do not use the same container. Plant fertilizer is TERRIBLE for a tank and causes major algae blooms. You can use tank water to water plants (sometimes you get a little odor, but if you can tolerate it, go for it) but do not mix plant fertilizer in your tank containers.

 

[mendhigirl]

You know if you think your pH may ba too low,you can add a bit (teeny bit)of baking soda to your water before you give it to the plants.Won't hurt'em,and will raise the pH.