Other than the ammonia and nitrates from fish waste and other decaying organics, plants need an assortment of nutrients to thrive.
Other than the ammonia and nitrates from fish waste and other decaying organics, plants need an assortment of nutrients to thrive. In planted aquariums, this will mostly be supplemented through the substrate or fertilizers. Planted tank substrates like UNSControsoil are packed full of the necessary nutrients to help plants grow. Make sure to add enough for the plants to dig their roots in, at least 1 1/2 - 2 inches deep. Fertilizers like UNS Plant Food All in One can be added additionally into the water column for plants that may not be rooted into substrate.