One thing to note in terms of nitrate reduction. Make sure the roots of the plants are located next to the output of a filter, pump, in a HOB or where there is decent water flow. When I had my pathos on the quiet side of the tank, the nitrate removal and growth was ok. Once I moved them over in front of the output of the filter, I noticed much better nitrate reduction and growth. You won't notice the change overnight. Give the plants some time to settle in once you move them.
