I'm in the exact same boat as you. I could'nt afford pressurized
CO2 when I started up my planted tank a month ago. At this point, it looks like it might be a while, so I'm going to build a
DIY yeast system for now.
Anyway, I have been dossing with excel for carbon, seeing how I don't have any
CO2 set up. Heres what I have noticed.
My java moss, and stem plants such as ludwigia, cobomba etc... are pearling and doing great. Having to cut them back weekly (well not the moss, its a slow grower
).
The radican, marble leaf and amazon swords are not thriving, but they are obviously showing signs of new growth. The swords also have a vibrant green color, no brown or yellowing leaves after a month. Swords are also heavy root feeders, so I think the eco complete and ferts in the substrate are helping a lot.
My only problem is my micro swords used for foreground. They are slowly yellowing. They are very slowly showing signs of new growth, but dieing faster than it's growing. I'm not sure if 2.6
wpg of lighting is'nt enough or lack of
CO2.
Keep in mind, this is my first planted tank, so I'm no expert by any means.
IMO if you have good lighting, filtration, substrate, ferts, water para's etc....... you should be able to keep most plants (depending on species and needs) until you can get a
CO2 system. Just do frequent water test and adjust accordingly.
Just thought I would share my observations, seeing how we are in the same boat. Hope this helps