Many plant problems can also be put down to tank aeration. The only time that we feel the water should be aerated is at night, when the nature of the plants means that they require more oxygen than carbon dioxide. If you're having plant trouble yourself, then we recommend this course of action before any others, so do give it a try. Simply remove any airstones in the tank and ensure that any filters or spray bars are completely submerged and not causing any surface movement. Lighting obviously plays an important part in the growth of the plants.
Many people severely underestimate the light requirements of aquatic life.
A single light tube is very rarely sufficient, two tubes being more favourable. Light reflectors are a must in a plant tank, and condensation trays should be spotless. A light, although still looking bright, can be useless in as little as 8 months. The reason for this lies in the various gases used in fluorescent lighting. For this reason, light tubes should be changed at least every 12 months or if plant growth becomes inhibited.