Alrighty. My 5ft planted tank isn't doing too crash hot. The plants are 'surviving' but not really growing much. My Melon Sword and Hygrophillia are the only things that are really liking it.

I think my first step is bettering my lighting. I've got two 4ft globes, a power-glo one and a life-glo one (I think). There is no reflector... I'm thinking of getting a reflector and two more globes. Do you think this is a reasonable step? Would you suggest something before this?
I'm going to go to bunnings and see if they have SOMETHING. I feel that the prices I'm finding at LFSs are a bit high for just a reflector... :unsure:
I have also considered gluing a mirror to the hood of my 5ft (wooden hood)... Good idea bad idea?

The fertiliser I'm using is Dupla Root Laterite and and Dupla Plant 'basic fertiliser'...

Any suggestions would be appreciated. :)

I would keep going with what your plans are with tht lighting set-up. Much can be done with T8's without the need to spend big bucks on lighting. Deffinately buy some reflectors. You need them. You will notice much more light hitting your plants, and they will do better for it. Keep up with the nutrients, depending on your plants needs. You sword would benefit from substrate feeding and the hygro, just about both!

Is that Dupla24 your using? I hear its the ultimate of plant fertiliser?


Try http://www.aquaria.com.au/catalog/index.php/cPath/6_21 for a reflector, if not, a DIY job wouldnt be too hard. Or even keep an eye out for a cheap light housing unit and use that.

I havnt heard of using a mirror before, but id say stay away. Reflectors reflect light, a mirror might concentrate light depending on its angle, and burn plants. (You could try though).

i use aluminum tape, it seems to work, though it may not work as well as a refelector. (i have never tried them) so, go with what mr_miagi said, i see no problems with what he has posted.

Oh, what other plants do you have in the aquarium? (i am just wondering, it has no effect on this subject at hand :laugh: )

Read my Intro about planted tanks only on this blog of mine it will give you some answers http://www.aquariumalgae.blogspot.com/

Regards, Dusko.

No offense mate but how about actually giving answers instead of just plugging your own site.