Boston Aquarium Society Message Board

Hi,
I am starting a new planted tank in Allston, Boston. I realized that tap water pH is really high (around 9) and the water is really soft (I don't yet have kit to test water hardness).
I read on this forum that aerating water with air stone will bring the pH down since water is soft, but I thats not happening for me. pH is at around 8.4 even after 2 months. I have eco-complete substrate https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002DH0QM/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I initially put drift wood but that also didn't help.

My questions are
1. Considering water is really soft, do I need to get something like Seachem Equilibrium to get mineral balance right for the healthy plant growth?
2. I am worried about high pH value for the fish. How do you guys solve this problem?

Thank a lot!

Seachem Neutral Regulator might help. It neutralizes the pH, and buffers the pH against changes. You can put in other minerals or plant food afterward. Also, fish waste breaks down into nitrites and then nitrates, which plants use for food as well.

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Eric - Secretary/Bowl Show Chairman