Is CO2 needed for a planted tank?

[Scott1980]

I've got a 10 gallon tank with one potted java fern in it and a Giant hydro. They do ok, not great, just ok. They're staying the same and not really flourishing. I put the flourish tabs by Seachem in, but I can't tell a difference. I've heard of CO2, is it necessary? Aren't there tablets that fizz and stuff? I really don't know much about it. I want to get more plants but want to make sure these to ok first.

 

[talenzmeier]

CO2 Is Your Friend

CO2 is one of those wonderful chemical compounds that are really beneficial for aquatic plants. A fairly inexpensive way to go is to purchase the Hagen CO2 system. It's about $25 US and you really can't go wrong. You can go the DIY route as well. Regardless, CO2 is as important to plants as O2 is for us.

 

[Guest]

I've got a 10 gallon tank with one potted java fern in it and a Giant hydro. They do ok, not great, just ok.

First, let's talk light. How much light do you have over your 10 gallon? anything less than 2 wpg, co2 won't help. In your case, you'd want a 20 watt bulb MInimum, better if you could get 30 watts over the tank.

 

[Scott1980]

I can't remember what brand the bulb is, but I do remember that it's 2700K, I'll put the rest on when I get home tonight and can look at the box. Guy at LFS told me to leave it on @ least 12-15 hours per day.