EDIT: I'm not 100% if this is a Red Flame or Red Melon. I got it at my LHS and forget which one it is.
I've had this Red Sword since the start of my tank in October 2020, just 4 months ago. Originally I put down about 1-1.5" of sand, scattered a bunch of osmocote plus around, then another 1-1.5" of sand.
It's hard to see from the photo but right in the very center a new red leaf started to grow about 2 weeks ago. So it seems healthy to me.
I haven't added any root tabs and it has been crossing my mind lately. Starting a month ago I've been adding a squirt of easy iron once a week.
Overall, what are your impressions from the photo? Sounds like I'm on the right path or do I need to add some root tabs.