Sunken Garden Root Tabs: Aquarium Root Fertilizer for Planted Tanks (Pack of 6 + 1 Free)

What are Sunken Garden Root Tabs?

They are slow-release root fertilizer tabs for planted aquariums. You bury them in the substrate, where they release NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), magnesium and trace elements near plant roots. They replenish nutrients in depleted or inert substrates and support root-fed plant growth. Developed by Aquarium Products India.

Do aquarium plants need root tabs?

Plants that feed mainly through their roots, such as Amazon swords, cryptocoryne, vallisneria and carpeting plants, benefit most. Stem plants take up nutrients through both roots and leaves, so they often need a liquid fertilizer as well. Inert substrates such as sand and gravel contain no nutrients, and nutrient-rich soils run low over time.

How many root tabs do I need?

Place 1 tab every 48 square inches (about 310 cm²) of substrate. For standard tanks, use this reference:

The area rule is the more accurate guide. Use the table only for standard-footprint tanks. Tall, narrow tanks need fewer tabs than their volume suggests.

How do I use them?

1. Push each tab about 1 inch deep into the substrate.
2. Space tabs evenly, close to the roots of heavy root feeders.
3. Make sure each tab is fully covered so it doesn’t float up.
4. In shallow substrates, place tabs on the tank bottom before adding more substrate.
5. Replace once a month, or as your plants’ growth and leaf color suggest.
6. Do not exceed the stated dose.

What is in Sunken Garden Root Tabs?

• Macronutrients: Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium (NPK),plus magnesium
• Trace elements: Boron, copper, manganese, molybdenum, zinc
• Release: Slow release from a sealed tab
• Pack: 6 tabs + 1 free = 7 tabs 
• Use: Aquariums, terrariums, paludariums, and potted indoor plants

Which substrates are they compatible with?

All aquarium substrates, including aqua soils (ADA Amazonia, Fluval Stratum), gravel, and sand. In inert sand or gravel they are the main source of root nutrition.

Which tanks and setups are they suitable for?

• Planted aquariums, new or established
• Terrariums and paludariums
• Potted indoor plants
• Aquascapes with stem plants, carpeting plants and red plants

Frequently asked questions

Are root tabs safe for shrimp, snails and fish?

They are intended for use in planted aquariums with fish and shrimp when fully buried and dosed as directed. Do not exceed the stated dose, and avoid disturbing buried tabs, which can release nutrients into the water.

Can I use them in sand or gravel?

Yes. Inert substrates contain no nutrients, so root tabs supply the root nutrition.

Will root tabs cause algae?

Not on their own. Algae is mostly driven by light, CO2, excess nutrients in the water, and tank maintenance. Burying tabs keeps nutrients in the substrate rather than the water column, which helps limit algae, but does not prevent it.

Can I add extra tabs?

No. Stay within the stated dose. Excess nutrients can leak into the water and cause algae or stress livestock.

How often should I replace them?

Once a month, or according to your plants’ needs.

Do they make red plants redder?

Not directly. Red color comes from light, iron, and overall plant health. Root tabs supply nutrients for healthy growth, but are not a color enhancer.

Can I use them for houseplants or terrariums?

Yes, as listed. Push a tab into the soil near the roots.

Do I still need liquid fertilizer?

Often yes for stem plants and moss, which feed mainly from the water. Root tabs cover root feeders.