This is just an example of a method that can be used for the Tailored Aquatics Amazon series. The main advantage to this method is creating and maintaining the 4-2-1 ratios of elements that are dosed. I have found through research and studies that aquatic plants need and use a 4-2-1 ratio of Potassium(40ppm), Calcium(20ppm) and magnesium (10ppm)in the system for balanced growth, With a nitrogen level of 5-10ppm and phosphorus level of .05ppm. This is what the Tailored Aquatics fertz are designed to deliver but only as needed.

Step#1: Amazon Elements gives you the 4-2-1 ratio plus certain trace minerals. Amazon Elements has almost ten times the amount of Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium some other brands have, with out adding any extra Nitrate or phosphate at this point, because lets face it alot of tanks have have enough of one or both these items already! Now just use as directed and we can make sure we have a 4-2-1 ratio that is easy to achieved in any tank.

Step #2: Amazon NO3... just simply test for nitrates, if your system test under 5ppm, your missing an important plant nutrient and simply add Amazon NO3 at this point as directed. If you test over 5-10ppm nitrate, there is no needed for Amazon N03, as this number has already been reached. In fact if its really high it may be time to up your water changing routine. Now On to...

Step #3: Amazon Advanced Test the phosphate levels in your system, a trace amount of phosphate is needed for plant growth. If your test shows under 0.05ppm phosphate, then again your missing a key ingredient for plant growth. Amazon Advanced will add phosphorus and other micro trace minerals to the system.

Step#4: Amazon Iron leads to faster plant growth and brings out amazing reds in red plants. A fantastic chelated form means it says in solution many, many time longer than other irons. Plus is safe and non-toxic for the aquatic life even at levels the "free" or non chelated iron becomes toxic. At the beginning of each week before these 4 steps are performed you should "reset" your levels back down with a 50% water change. (NOTE: Fish will need to get used to large volume water changes, slowly increase the amount of water changed weekly until 50% is acheived to avoid large water chemistry changes.) This water change will help assure that the 4-2-1 ratio of Elements stay in proportion.

Thanks for reading,
Brad