How to Fix Yellowing Aquarium Plants

Fish tank owners put living plants in their aquariums for a variety of reasons. For one, plants make the environment more attractive to look at, especially in a large tank. They also give the fish hiding and breeding places. Having such retreats helps reduce the amount of stress aquarium fish experience. Finally, live plants also help keep the water clean and appropriately oxygenated. Unfortunately, sometimes plants begin to show signs of a problem when the tips of the leaves begin to turn yellow. As soon as the yellow appears, you should take action to prevent further problems in the fish tank.

Nutrients

Aquarium plants need certain levels of nutrients in order to thrive. In particular, low levels of potassium, manganese and iron can all create yellowing of the leaves. Some homes have water filtering systems that remove potassium from sink water, so aquarium owners using water from the tap need to replace the potassium in the tank. Potassium deficiency may lead to low levels of iron, creating a vicious cycle. Aquarium fertilizers available in pet shops generally contain the appropriate amount of nutrients to prevent such deficiency and yellow leaves.

Light

The amount of light in the fish tank may also affect plant growth and health. Different types of aquarium plants have different needs regarding the amount and type of light. If leaves begin to turn yellow and plants seem to have stopped growing or have few leaves overall, more light is needed in the fish tank. If leaves are more plentiful and healthier the nearer they are to the light source, that is another indication of light deficiency. Add more lights, replace bulbs with stronger lights or leave the lights on longer to correct this problem and prevent yellowing.

Initial Planting

Sometimes aquarium plants don't react well when initially placed in the fish tank. If some leaves yellow and drop off immediately after planting, it may be due to shock. When this is the issue, plants should grow new, healthy-looking leaves shortly afterward. Different plants have different requirements regarding planting, as well. For instance, some float, some need soil or some other base, and some even grow on rocks. Fish tank owners should check requirements carefully.

Prevention

The best way to fix yellow aquarium plant leaves is to prevent them from occurring. When selecting plants for the fish tank, only those that look healthy should be purchased. Any yellow or otherwise damaged leaves should be removed before planting. Sterilizing plants before putting them in the tank helps prevent transfer of disease. Soaking them in a potassium permanganate solution for 10-15 minutes before introducing them into the fish tank removes diseases, but aquarium owners should make certain the fish won't be hurt by the solution.

References

"Aquarium Plants." E-aquarium.com.

"Problems with Aquatic Plants." Badmanstropicalfish.com.

"How to Grow and Care for Aquarium Plants." Aquaticcommunity.com.