Iron is an essential micronutrient that all aquarium plants require in small amounts. Despite the low concentrations of .1 – 1 ppm (mg/l) recommended for adequate use, even lightly planted aquariums may see iron limitations due to high competition for the nutrient. Used as a co-factor in enzymes involved in photosynthesis, iron plays a major role in the plant and should not be ignored by the aquarist. In this video we show you how to make the cheapest iron fertilizer possible, this however comes at a different kind of price…

 

     Using Iron(II) sulfate heptahydrate is not the most efficient form of iron to add to the aquarium. It will readily precipitate and form insoluble forms of iron that are not as easily used by the plant. With that being said, it is not impossible for the plant to get a hold of this iron and this method can still be used as a long term iron supplement. In cases where iron supplementation is needed quickly, the use of a chelated form is a much better alternative. Using 10 -11% DTPA iron will ensure plants have fast access to the iron as soon as it’s added. Check out our video on how to make a DTPA iron solution as well as our API laterite review for more information regarding iron in the aquarium. Also, check out or Guide to Aquarium Plant Deficiencies to learn even more about nutrients in the aquarium as well as how to solve specific nutrient limitations!