Need to test Iron Levels in a planted tank?

[guppymummy]

Now I am feeling abit overwhelmed. Says on my fert bottle to test iron levels in aquarium once per week?

And if I get some root tabs (for my sword) do I still need to use liquid fertilizer?

[Cermet]

Depends on the plants - some require the fert in the water and most root tabs get very little there. So, if the plants require it in the water, then a liquid is critical. If they get it only from the roots, a liquid is useless.

Testing for Fe is required if you add extra Fe and you do not do large weekly water changes (assume you are adding every week.) Fe can be toxic and needs to be given in the minimum amounts. Seachem sells a testing kit - I used mine until I realized that my water changes got me back to near zero so dosing was simple; after every 80% weekly water change (ignoring small changes during the week), I add 75% of the required Fe (yes, you under dose - Fe is dangerous.)

Also, avoid all ferts that have phosphates aand/or nitrates unless you have no fish. These types of ferts are only for fish keepers who want lots of algae ... .