Aquarium Plant Weights provide an easy, non-toxic anchoring solution that keeps stems, rhizomes, and mosses anchored firmly at the substrate line. Often referred to colloquially as "lead weights" in the aquatic hobby, our weights contain zero lead and are forged from an aquarium-safe, non-leaching Zinc-Magnesium alloy.
Key Features & Benefits
Safe Zinc-Magnesium Alloy: 100% lead-free, non-toxic metal formulation that will not leach heavy metals, alter pH, or harm sensitive dwarf shrimp and fish.
Soft & Bendable Geometry: Easily wraps by hand around delicate plant stems and rhizomes without pinching or crushing plant tissue.
Easy Cut-to-Size Strips: Soft alloy cuts effortlessly with standard scissors to customize weights for individual stems or small Buce cuttings.
Prevents Floating Disruption: Anchors unrooted stem bunches, moss clumps, and epiphytes until natural root systems lock into substrate or hardscape.
Cut weights to the desired size using clean household scissors or wire cutters before applying to plants.
Wrap strips loosely around stem bases or rhizomes to avoid crushing vascular structures; do not pinch tightly.
Rinse under tap water prior to initial installation into the aquarium.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are these plant weights actually made of lead, and are they safe for dwarf shrimp?
No, despite being called "lead weights" traditionally in the aquarium trade, these weights contain absolutely no lead. They are made from a non-toxic Zinc-Magnesium alloy that is completely safe for sensitive freshwater dwarf shrimp (like Crystal Red and Neocaridina shrimp), fish, and snails.
2. How do I use these weights with rhizome plants like Anubias or Bucephalandra?
Because Anubias and Buce rhizomes must stay above the substrate to prevent rot, attach a small piece of weight strip to the rhizome using a dab of cyanoacrylate super glue gel or a loose wrap. The weight will sink the plant to the substrate surface without burying the rhizome.
3. Do I need to remove the plant weights once the roots grow in?
Removing them is optional. Once your plants establish strong root networks in the substrate, you can gently snip off or unwrap the weight. However, leaving the inert weight attached under the substrate layer will not harm water quality or plant growth.
Overall rating: 4.953125 / 5 from 64 reviews.
AI Generated Review Summary
Plant Weights made from a Zinc Magnesium alloy are highly appreciated for their quality and performance. They effectively hold aquarium plants in place without damaging them, preventing unwanted floating.
Summary topics
Weight Quality and Performance (40%): A significant amount of customers expressed appreciation for the great quality and performance of these plant weights from the company.
Plant Growth and Stability (16%): Based on many customers, the plants are growing well and effectively holding plants in place without damaging them.
"and they are a good length to be able to thoroughly wrap around plants that have to be planted in substrate." — Ashley P.
"Also they will def hold your plants down extremely well!" — Ashley P.
"Plants arrived quickly and very healthy!" — Jon K.
Reviews
Works As Advertised
"The weights were delivered as advertised. They proved useful in holding down plants that would otherwise come loose after planting in the substrate."
— Kenneth M. (5/5)
"Great plant. Came healthy and strong. Looks great in my tank."
— Melissa (5/5)
Excellent product
"I love these weights! So great to have some that don't contain lead!"
— Martha S. (5/5)
The best I found
"Although a bit more expensive than other sites for lead weights, I find these are the best made, most enduring and lasting, and they do not rust in my tank. I prefer to spend a little extra dollars for better product."
— Kelly S. (5/5)
Easy and clean
"These weights are solid, Great for background stems. Works for tissue cultures if you're just trying to grow out. Doesn't affect water quality."
— Levi B. (5/5)
Plant weights
"Works as intended"
— Vincent Z. (5/5)
Very easy to use.
"Very easy to use."
— Brian P. (5/5)
Nice weights
"Never used these before, but thought I'd give them a go. They're great quality and perfect for stems!"
— Gillian G. (5/5)
A must have for stem
"A must have for stem plants."
— Shirley C. (5/5)
Great product just glad it
"Great product just glad it isn't lead"
— James M. (5/5)
Q&A
I am looking for Lead and zinc free plant weights. I have read that both are toxic to fish. I was using washers as weight because of the hole as well as their weight. I read that washers are coated with zinc so I immedietly took them out. Do you carry lead free as well as zinc free weights. Im also looking for a few red plants that are about 3 to 4 inches in height. Do you carry them. Thank you. I think you have great products
Hi Warren, Thank you for reaching out and the kind words. Unfortunately our plant weights are also made from a zinc alloy. Another option is to tie plants down to hardscape with string. Best regards, Buceplant Team
How wide and long is each strip?
Hi Jane, Thank you for reaching out to us! Each piece can be between 2.5-3 inches long and 1-1.5 centimeters wide. These plant weight pieces are easily cut into smaller pieces if desired. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at support@buceplanthelp.zendesk.com. We are always happy to help! Best Regards, Buceplant Team
It says that these are not made of lead even though they are called lead weights. What are they made of? I have bristle nose plecos and they seem to really like broccoli but they can't get to it because it floats. I was thinking about getting some of these and using them to sink the broccoli. Do you think it would work?
Hi Thomas, Thank you for reaching out. In the past the weights were made out of lead, but they are now made out of magnesium- zinc alloy. The old name is still used for that reason, and has stuck to this day. The metal weights are fish and plant safe, and using them to weigh down broccoli is an excellent idea. Your plecos will definitely love you for that! If you have any additional questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at support@buceplanthelp.zendesk.com. We are always happy to help! Best Regards, Buceplant Team
