Slow-Release Ferts While On Holiday?

[sonicfish73]

After just getting into the habit of dosing my planted aquarium daily, I was wondering, how can I provide some basic ferts for my plants while I am away on holiday? Are there any such products which can do this for a two week period and should I just leave the Co2 running on the timer? I have nightmares thinking I would come back to a disaster after such hard work. Unfortunately, I couldn't leave it up to anyone I know to look after the tank while I was gone. I tried this the last time (before it was heavily planted) and they were very generous with the fish flakes over a two week period resulting in poorly fish and algae growing everywhere! I plan on getting an automtic feeder to take care of the fish but I don't know if there is anything I can do for the plants.

 

[MewMew42]

i dont know if this helps but you can get little fert balls that you can put into the substrate that may help?

sorry if it wasnt much use!

 

[Mr Bliss]

Aside from the root tabs, reducing the daily light period by a couple of hours would reduce the nutrient needs of the plants while you're away.

 

[sonicfish73]

Aside from the root tabs, reducing the daily light period by a couple of hours would reduce the nutrient needs of the plants while you're away.

Thanks for both replies, I will bear these in mind should I be lucky enough to get a (much needed) holiday soon.

 

[RadaR]

Decrease the lighting to one tube, have it on a timer for 7hours a day. Make sure the substrate is rich in nutrients via tabs/capsules.
Leave out the CO2.
How long are you away for?