Is this a normal rise in Nitrates?

[convict360]

I'd just use an all purpose general aquarium fertiliser pre-made, otherwise you could mix salts; but its not really necessary for plants like pothos that are very hardy to begin with. If going down that route, I'd reduce stocking density, since fertilisers usually add nitrates to the water as well

 

[Fishy-Botany]

A 10 ppm rise in nitrate in 7-10 days, means to me that water changes should be every 3-4 days instead of the current routine.

I have started to do every other day water changes. Ill see what that produces.

 

[Fishy-Botany]

I'd just use an all purpose general aquarium fertiliser pre-made, otherwise you could mix salts; but its not really necessary for plants like pothos that are very hardy to begin with. If going down that route, I'd reduce stocking density, since fertilisers usually add nitrates to the water as well

I only want to apply fertilizer to the leaves, with a foliar spray. The only reason I am considering fertilizing is because of the pothos having an Iron deficincey.
Is their a fert to feed them only micronutrients?

 

[Wailua Boy]

I build small, very inexpensive over head sumps for my filter plants. The overhead sump builds up nutrients quickly and you may not need to fertilize. If you are positive you are needing nutrients, Fourish Tabs by Seachem come to mind they provide mostly micro nutrients and are designed to be inserted into substrate but likely will release some nutrients into water column. They are expensive for what you are getting but for one or two tanks, not too bad. If you already adding lighting you pothos, minds well plant some true aquatics like Vals in substrate.

 

[Fishy-Botany]

Your always such a big help Wailua Boy
Thank you !

 

[arowanaman85]

I use seachem flourish for my pothos my nitrates are rarely detectable. Pothos grows like crazy. Cut it back every few months In Sump and letting it cover top

Plants need trace element to absorb nitrate