Yes, obviously a balanced tank is an even better solution and should be the goal. But if that is the case and there is still algae then BNs are a good option. I am not talking about problematic outbreaks, I am talking about general maintenance. Almost any tank, planted or not, needs a little help with algae control.
Yes, plants are better adapted than algae. But what do I know, I am just a Biologist. I have seen multiple tanks do much better by simply adding plants. They utilize the nutrients better than the algae does and all of a sudden the algae problem is gone.
Yes, a less aggressive water change schedule is definitely an option in a planted. But if there are any problems, like algae, then increasing the water changes is always a good idea. Yes, obviously the exception is if the water changes themselves are causing the problem.
I am not saying these are the only ways to fix an algae problem, but they are what have worked for me. I like to be pretty lazy with my tanks, and so do my clients and customers, and these are the methods that have worked best for me. If the OP )or someone reading this thread) does even end up with algae problems and wants to mess with their fertilizer schedule, change the lighting, or get into CO2 then by all means, go for it. I am just providing another option as well.
How do you alter lighting without a new fixture?