Yes, you should quarantine plants before putting them into the aquarium. Plants can also carry pests, diseases, or algae that can then harm your fish and plants. Quarantining can help prevent the spread of these unwanted organisms.
Use a separate bucket, a plastic tub, or a small tank. Make sure it is clean and has no traces of soap or chemicals. Fill it with dechlorinated water and add some aquarium salt to prevent fungal infections. You can also add some fertilizer or plant food to help the plants grow.
Rinse your plants thoroughly under running water. Remove any dead or damaged leaves, roots, or stems. Cut off any parts that have signs of pests, diseases, or algae. You can also dip the plants in a very mild bleach solution (one part bleach to 19 parts water) for a few minutes to kill any parasites or bacteria, but you'll need to very thoroughly rinse the plants again after the dip.
Place the plants in the quarantine container and cover it with a lid or a mesh. Change the water every few days and monitor the plants for any signs of problems. You can also trim the plants if they grow too large or crowded.
Quarantine the plants for at least two weeks before introducing them to the aquarium. If you notice any issues with the plants, treat them accordingly or discard them. If the plants are healthy and free of pests, diseases, or algae, you can transfer them to the aquarium. Acclimate the plants to the aquarium water gradually and plant them in the substrate.
