The CNP (Carbon, Nitrogen, Phosphorus) ratio for macros and seagrasses is 550-40-1. These are the big 3 nutrients for plants. Then there are trace elements that get used up quickly in closed systems. The most important one is Iron. Water changes and fish food will take care of the phosphate and trace elements, with an occasional dose of Iron possibly required.
That just leaves Carbon and Nitrogen.
Plants' favorite form of Carbon is CO2. I add CO2 by running a small CO2 tank with a regulator. The output goes into the intake tube of a canister filter, which then puts out CO2-heavy water into the tank. Plants' second favorite form of Carbon is bicarbonates. Plants have to 'work' to convert bicarbs into CO2, but if you don't want to go the CO2 route, this is the next best choice. Google ways to increase bicarbonates in marine aquariums.
Nitrogen is pretty easy. Plants' preferred form of Nitrogen is ammonia, but it's risky to dose it because it can cause algae. Potassium Nitrate is a safer choice. It is sold in hardware stores as stump remover. Mix some up in a jug and start playing around with amounts and frequency of dosing.
I hope this is helpful.
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As many naturalists and environmentalists have suggested, we should set aside our arrogance,
our desire to conquer and control everything, and walk hand in hand with Mother Nature. -Walter Adey
Current Tank Info: 180g Seagrass Sandbar Lagoon, START DATE November 28, 2018
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