Quarantine and dips

[Vizerdrix]

I've been searching and re-reading some older threads to disinfect new plants, and I have a few questions:

First, how does one quarantine a plant?  Just plop it into a quarantine tank for a month?  How do I know there still aren't parasites or microbes on the plant after the quarantine?

Second, I saw a lot of references to bleach dips, PP dips, and ALUM.  I happen to have some alum here, so how do I use it?  Or would bleach be a better option?

Thanks muchly! 

[henry]

This link gives a few options.
http://www.aquariumplants.com/Articles.asp?ID=111

[Vizerdrix]

Thanks Henry!

[angelfreak]

I have done the bleach dip on a couple occasions after neglecting my tank for a bit. I used 1 part bleach to 19 parts water and dipped the plants roots up for any where from 30 seconds for delicate plants and up to 2 minutes for thick leaved plants. After this I dip in a pail of water with chlorine remover and swish a bit then to straight water for another good rinse. From here back to the tank. I have never lost a plant doing this only the occasional leaf. Hope this helps

Scott

[dan2x38]

Do the bleach dip 1:20 water. I did have some leave die off but plants survied plus there were no snails. I rinsed in clean water several times changing to clean water each time. Then I put them in my tanks.