Regime
Seachem
Philosophy
The Seachem method promotes an analytical, modular philosophy geared toward maximum individual control over every chemical parameter. Rejecting the concept that a single 'all-in-one' solution can fit every aquarium, Seachem developed the Flourish line by strictly separating each macro and micronutrient into its own bottle (Flourish, Iron, Potassium, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Trace).
This modularity allows the advanced hobbyist to calibrate nutrition with milligram precision based on plant biomass, lighting efficiency, CO2 levels, and local tap water chemistry. If a tank consumes high amounts of potassium but naturally accumulates nitrates from fish, the hobbyist can increase the former without risking an overdose of the latter. The system requires regular testing and an understanding of nutrient interactions (such as the precipitation risk between phosphorus and iron), but rewards the user with unmatched flexibility to target specific deficiencies.
Recommended nutrient targets
| Parameter | mg/L |
|---|---|
| N (NO₃) | 8 |
| P (PO₄) | 0.8 |
| K | 15 |
| Fe | 0.1 |
| Mg | 3 |
| Ca | 15 |
| B | 0.01 |
| Mn | 0.1 |
| Zn | 0.01 |
| Cu | 0.003 |
| Mo | 0.001 |
Dosing frequency
2-3x/week (each product separately)
Water change
25-30% weekly
CO2
Optional (Flourish Excel as organic supplement)
Light
Low-medium (20-50 PAR)
Pros
- Maximum customization
- Widely available
- Modular: dose only what's needed
- Good documentation
Cons
- Many products to manage
- Higher cost for variety
- Requires nutrient knowledge
- Complex for beginners
Common Errors
- •Not keeping track of what was dosed and when: managing 6 bottles easily leads to human errors.
- •Overdosing Flourish Excel hoping it miraculously eliminates algae (it can melt mosses and Vallisneria).
Advanced Techniques
- •Creating a weekly 'Master Solution' by mixing Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium in the right proportions for your tank in a single bottle (NEVER mix with Iron to avoid precipitation).
Ideal for
Experienced hobbyists wanting individual nutrient control.
