Test kits advice please

[Larry Grenier]

What do you test for? (Iron, nitrogen, phosphorus...)
What kits?
How, if you do, do you measure C02?
What is the Best book for set-up & maintenance of planted tank?

Your opinions and suggestions are appreciated.

I know; questions, questions, questions... Look at it like this; newbies reading this site see what good advice folks are getting from the membership <img border="0" src="smileys/smiley2.gif" border="0">   <edited><editID>Larry Grenier</editID><editDate>38152.4834259259</editDate></edited>

[krisw]

I don't test a whole lot anymore. Occasionally, I'll test my PH and KH, which allows me to calculate the CO2 levels... For more info on this, see Chuck Gadd's excellent website:

<a href="http://www.csd.net/~cgadd/aqua/art_plant_co2chart.htm" target="_blank">http://www.csd.net/~cgadd/aqua/art_plan ... art.htm</a>

-Kris

[Jonathan Kalmes]

I'm with Kris. I test my KH to see where my CO2 is and I'll do a manual test of pH periodically to make sure my pH monitor is correct. Other than that I just have one fairly complex test I use on a regular basis...

If I can see through the tank, all the critters are moving around, and there's more green leafy stuff that needs to be cut back, then the water is fine. <img border="0" src="smileys/smiley2.gif" border="0">
<edited><editID>Jonathan Kalmes</editID><editDate>38152.5144791667</editDate></edited>

[Ben Belton]

I did a lot of testing when I first started, and I think it helped met get going and figure things out.

Now I don't test much, but when I do it is KH, NO3, and PO4. I have a pH controller, so I don't need to test for that, but would if I didn't have it.

I have the LaMotte test kids for NO3 and PO4. I get whatever is cheapest for KH.

Ben

[ericbullock]

I'm with Jonathan (who was with Kris?)...if everyone is happy and your
water is clear then stop there. However, if you really want to go all out the
Hach tests are always among the bst.

-eb- <img border="0" src="smileys/smiley1.gif" border="0">