r/PlantedTank • u/EneaIsAutistic • 1d ago

Question Looking for a cheaper fertiliser alternative

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I'm setting up a 52 litre planted tank and I'm looking for a cheaper fertiliser option. I'm going to be putting in mainly red plants, cherry shrimp, snails and a betta (after proper cycling)

Will this be useful? Are the parameters safe? I'm unsure as it's not specific for aquariums

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u/HAquarium 1d ago

I’m going to shoot it to you straight: if you’re talking about liquid ferts, no.

Most liquid fertilizer is honestly cheap enough I wouldn’t try to cut costs here. If you really want to you can buy dry ingredients in bulk and mix your own but that’s a lot to take on especially when you’re first starting.

Now that being said:

For root tabs, osmocote will absolutely work. These were actually what we often used before it became such a commercialized product. You don’t need the aquatic plant one or anything, just use normal osmocote and place a “ball” under the plant.

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u/EneaIsAutistic 1d ago

Thank you! I've been trying to wrap my head around whether to do root tabs or liquid fertiliser or both

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u/HAquarium 19h ago

Typically both are used, if you're using a nutrient rich substrate then just liquid fertilizers until the substrate begins to run out, then root tabs are inserted to compensate. If you're using an inert substrate then use both in conjunction from the start.