DIY Aquarium Fertilizer – PPS-Pro Recipe for Indian Hobbyists - October 2025
DIY aquarium fertilizers using the PPS-Pro method lets aquarists create precise, cost-efficient nutrient mixes for planted tanks 🌿. This guide explains how to prepare your own fertilizers using easily available chemicals in India — saving money and giving you full control over your aquarium’s plant nutrition.
💧 PPS-Pro Stock Solutions (for 500 mL each)
| Solution | Chemical | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Macro Solution | Potassium Sulphate (K₂SO₄) | 29.3 g |
| Potassium Nitrate (KNO₃) | 32.6 g | |
| Monopotassium Phosphate (KH₂PO₄) | 2.9 g | |
| Magnesium Sulphate (MgSO₄) | 20.2 g | |
| Micro Solution | CSM+B (Chelated Trace Mix) | Follow Label |
🧪 To prepare:
- Dissolve the chemicals in about 400 mL of RO or distilled water.
- Top up to 500 mL after all solids dissolve fully.
- Store in clean, labeled bottles away from sunlight.
- Use 1 mL of the solution per 40 L of aquarium water daily, adjusting as plants demand.
- Add micro solution seperately as per label instructions.
🌱 Why DIY PPS-Pro?
- Massive cost efficiency — typically 10×–20× cheaper than branded liquid fertilizers.
- Customizable dosing — adjust nutrients precisely to your tank’s lighting and plant load.
- Long shelf life — stable for months when stored in cool, dark places.
⚠️ Disclaimer This page is provided as a reference guide for Indian aquarists to help source the correct ingredients in India. Credit for the original formula goes to Edward (Rex Grigg) and the PPS-Pro contributors. For full details, FAQs, and ongoing discussions, please visit the official PPS-Pro page: pps-pro source
Check out our top 7 picks below, along with brief reviews and notes to help you decide. 👇🏻
(MgSO₄) Organix Mantra Epsom Bath Salt Crystal and Bath | Fo...
Our Review
Organix Mantra Epsom Bath Salt Crystal is a straightforward, magnesium-rich bath soak designed to help soothe tired muscles and provide a refreshing, relaxing bath experience. The coarse crystals dissolve in warm water to offer a calming soak that can ease minor aches and post-exercise soreness.
Easy to use for full baths or foot soaks, this product is aimed at regular home recovery routines and stress relief. Follow the recommended quantity and soak time, and dry skin users should moisturize afterwards as salts can be slightly drying.
Take precautions if you have sensitive skin, open wounds, high blood pressure, or are pregnant—consult a healthcare professional before using. For everyday relaxation and occasional muscle relief, it’s a convenient addition to a self-care routine.
Key Features
- HIGHEST QUALITY EPSOM SALT: PURE UNSCENTED Pharma Grade Epsom Salt (Magnesium Sulfate)
- SOOTHE TIRED, ACHING FEET: Add Epsom Salt Bath Salt to a foot bath to soothe tired, aching, and itchy feet while soaking away bacteria and fungus. Leaves your feet feeling soft, clean and completely rejuvenated. You can also add your favorite essential oil to the foot bath.
- RELAXES MUSCLES: Magnesium in the Epsom Salt not only help to relax your muscles, it can also help to relax your mind.
- ELIMINATES TOXINS: Human skin is a highly porous membrane; by adding minerals like magnesium and sulfate to your bathwater, it triggers a process called reverse osmosis, which actually pulls salt out of your body and harmful toxins along with it.
- HOW TO USE: Fill a small bucket or personal pedicure system with warm water. Consider filling it with boiling water and then allowing it to cool until you can comfortably place feet in water. Add one to two cups of Epsom salt to the water and swish with your feet. Rub your feet along the salt grains to break it down and get it into sore or painful areas. Sit with feet in the salt bath until water cools. If you want to continue your soak, consider adding a few cups of hot water and mix.
Reasons to buy
- Magnesium-rich Epsom crystals help relax muscles and relieve aches & pain
- Simple, convenient soak for post-workout recovery and stress relief
Reasons to avoid
- May irritate sensitive or broken skin; avoid use on open wounds
- Not a replacement for medical treatment—consult a doctor for chronic conditions or pregnancy
ATOM Selves-MH 200 GM Digital Pocket Scale
Our Review
The ATOM Selves-MH 200 GM Digital Pocket Scale offers a convenient and compact way to measure weight, especially suitable for items like gold, silver, and other small valuables. Its pocket size makes it highly portable for on-the-go use.
This scale features auto calibration and a tare button that allows users to deduct the container weight for precise net measurement. The LCD display shows measurements in multiple units including grams, ounces, and carats, catering to various needs.
Additionally, it has an auto shutoff after 30 seconds of inactivity to conserve battery life, and comes with two AAA batteries included. The scale balances simplicity with functionality, making it a practical choice for personal or business use.
Key Features
- Auto Calibration
- Tare Full Capacity
- Pocket Scale
- Auto Off: 30 Seconds Off
- 2AAA Battery Included
Reasons to buy
- Compact and portable design, easy to carry anywhere.
- Features auto calibration and tare function for accurate weighing.
Reasons to avoid
- Limited maximum capacity of 200 grams.
- Auto off feature might turn off too quickly for some users.
(CSMB) Utkarsh Aquarium EDTA Micro Mix (EDTA Chelated 100% W...
Our Review
Utkarsh Aquarium EDTA Micro (CSMB) Mix is a concentrated, EDTA-chelated micronutrient blend designed for planted aquariums. The EDTA chelation keeps iron and other trace elements soluble and bioavailable, while the 100% water-soluble formulation ensures fast uptake and easy dosing.
Use it to prevent common micronutrient deficiencies and to support healthy plant color and growth. Follow recommended dosages carefully—this product complements macronutrient dosing (NPK) rather than replacing it, and improper use can promote algae or affect sensitive invertebrates.
Key Features
- Aquarium EDTA Micro (CSMB) Mix Supply required six essential micronutirents like Iron, manganese, zinc, boron, molybdenum, copper as well as magnesium in optimum dose for aquarium plants
- Aquarium EDTA Micro (CSMB) Mix is used for survival, growth, nutrient regulation, metabolism, reproduction, carbohydrates, sugar, chlorophyll, development of aquarium plants
- Aquarium EDTA Micro (CSMB) Mix contains Magnesium as Mg 1.5%, Zinc(as Zn) 0.4%, Iron(as Fe) 5%, Manganese(as Mn) 2%, Boron(as B) 0.04%, Copper (as Cu) 0.01%, Molybdenum(as Mo) 0.06%
- Target crops:- Anacharis, Sagittaria, Vallisneria, Ambulia, Ludwegia, Cyptocoryne willisii, Aponogeton undulatum, Amazon sword plant, Hygrophila, Myriophyllum, Cabomba, Cryptocoryne
- Application & Doses : Recommendations : Prepare stock solution by adding 20 gms in 1 ltr water. In 50 litres of aquarium water, give 10 ml of above solution every alternate days. For example, give Utkarsh Aquarium Macro set every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. On Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday give Utkarsh Aquarium Micro EDTA Mix. On Sunday, change the water. In case of Iron deficiency, give Fe aquarium/FeGro/FeeDrip along with Utkarsh Aquarium Micro EDTA Mix.
Reasons to buy
- EDTA-chelated micro-nutrients for stable, fast availability to aquatic plants
- 100% water-soluble formula makes dosing and mixing quick and convenient
Reasons to avoid
- Overdosing can cause algae issues or stress sensitive livestock
- Not a complete fertilizer—macronutrients (N, P, K) must be supplied separately
AANIJ® Plastic Wash Bottle New Type for Laboratory 500ml Squ...
Our Review
AANIJ® 500ml Plastic Wash Bottle is a lightweight, flexible LDPE squeeze bottle designed for routine laboratory rinsing and dispensing. The 500ml capacity and tapered nozzle enable one-handed, controlled delivery of water and mild aqueous solutions, making it practical for bench work and cleaning.
Durable and economical for everyday use, the bottle is easy to fill and reuse, but it is not intended for strong organic solvents or high-temperature sterilization — always check chemical compatibility before use.
Key Features
- AANIJ Wash Bottles are made of low density polyethylene which gives these bottles a translucent & unbreakable character.
- Solutions can be poured easily by squeezing the bottle lightly.
- The cap is fitted with a long flexible polyethylene deliver tube which can be aimed whenever required.
- Size: 500Ml, Pack of 1
- Molded in polyethylene
Reasons to buy
- Made from flexible, chemical-resistant LDPE for easy squeezing and durability
- 500ml capacity with a precision nozzle for controlled dispensing in lab tasks
Reasons to avoid
- Not suitable for strong organic solvents (may degrade LDPE)
- Not autoclavable — avoid high-temperature sterilization
(KNO₃) DS Fine Chem Potassium Nitrate 200Gm Seal Pack | Valu...
Our Review
DS Fine Chem Potassium Nitrate 200g is offered as a sealed value pack and includes a mask, gloves and spoon to help with safer handling. The 200g size is convenient for gardeners, hobbyists and small-scale lab demonstrations.
Practical and handy: the included PPE and spoon add value for DIY projects like crystal growing or use as a fertilizer component, but buyers should confirm the suitability/grade for their specific application.
Safety first: potassium nitrate is an oxidizer — store securely, use appropriate protective equipment, and follow local regulations to avoid misuse.
Key Features
- Suitable for all crops and all growing stages in crops Virtually free from harmful elements for plants
- Oxidizer, Fertilizer ,Food preservation.(Not Food Grade)
- Free-flowing, fine crystalline powder which dissolves speedily and completely in water
- Compatible with all water-soluble fertilizers and also majority of pesticides in foliar application
- Not For Medicinal Use
Reasons to buy
- 200g sealed value pack with free mask, gloves and spoon — convenient for small projects
- Versatile for gardening, crystal growing and basic hobby/lab use when handled properly
Reasons to avoid
- May not be food-grade and requires careful handling and storage
- Subject to safety/regulatory restrictions; not suitable for illicit or hazardous uses
(K₂SO₄) DS Fine Chem Potassium Sulphate, 200gm,(Free Measuri...
Our Review
DS Fine Chem Potassium Sulphate (200 g) delivers essential potassium and sulphur to promote flowering, fruit set and improved crop quality. The compact pack is handy for home gardeners and small-scale growers, and it arrives with a free measuring cup & spoon to simplify dosing.
Best used as a supplemental feed for fruiting and flowering plants; dissolve the recommended amount and apply according to plant needs. Take care to measure accurately and follow safe application practices — avoid excess use and store the product in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
Key Features
- Item Weight:200 grams
- Number of Item:1
- Not for medical use
Reasons to buy
- Supplies potassium and sulphur to support flowering, fruiting and overall plant vigor
- Includes a free measuring cup and spoon for convenient and accurate dosing
Reasons to avoid
- Small 200 g pack may be insufficient or less economical for larger gardens
- Concentrated fertilizer — risk of overapplication if measurements are not followed
(KH₂PO₄) SRL Potassium Dihydrogen Orthophosphate pure, 99% 5...
Our Review
SRL Potassium Dihydrogen Orthophosphate (monobasic, KH2PO4) 99% in a 500 g bottle is a common laboratory reagent used for buffer preparation, media formulation and analytical applications. The 99% purity ensures consistent performance in experiments and preparations.
This product is a reliable source of potassium and phosphate for stable buffer systems and other routine lab tasks. It is supplied in a convenient pack size for labs or educational settings.
Handle with care: use appropriate PPE, avoid ingestion, and store in a cool, dry place. Not suitable for consumption or clinical use.
Key Features
- Potassium Phosphate, monobasic
- CAS 7778-77-0
- Molecular Formula : KH2PO4
- Shelf Life : 60 Months
- Storage : Room Temperature
Reasons to buy
- High purity (99%) suitable for laboratory buffer and reagent use
- Convenient 500 g pack from a reputable supplier (SRL) for repeated use
Reasons to avoid
- Hazardous chemical — requires proper PPE, ventilation and storage
- Not for food, pharmaceutical or clinical use