Hello, I have similar questions here. I am using both tabs and liquid. I am also a total newb at this. And I apologize for jumping into your forum if this is out of place. My question though is will root tabs and liquid fertilizer cause high nitrates in the tank. I am having somewhat of a nitrate spike and I'm actively doing water changes and vacuumed the gravel. my tests show 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 40 -60ppm nitrate. I do have noticeable plant growth and everyone seems happy. But I'm a little concerned. I have 7 glo-tetras and 3 small snails in a 20 gallon tank. I am hoping the plants will use the nitrate, Should I let it go or continue with water changes? Iv'e been doing 25% water changes every other day and nitrates are not really coming down. ??? I feed sparingly once a day so I'm also trying to minimize fish waist.