K

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Potassium (K)

Sometimes called 'potash'.

Potassium is an essential mineral micronutrient in all life. So aquatic plants require it in order to grow.

It is most commonly used as a plant fertiliser.

For example:

  • Potassium bicarbonate (KHCO3) also called Salt of Tartar or Kaligreen.
This increases KH without increasing GH and adds K and CO2. Increases pH.
  • Potassium carbonate (K2CO3)
This increases KH and GH. May increase pH.
  • Potassium nitrate (KN03)
This is very commoningly used as a part of the PMDD (Poor Man's Dosing Drops) mix to add nitrate to a tank.
  • Potassium hydroxide (KOH)
Used to increase pH without affecting GH or KH.


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