When purchasing new plants, there are ways to protect your tank from the plants introducing possible harmfull pathogens, parasites, and snails.

Potassium permangenate

Ten minute soak. This is particularly effective against harmfull bacteria.

Jungle Products Clear Water

A diluted form of potassium permangenate

Lime it from Aquatronics

An aquarium product effective against snail eggs and bacteria

Alum USP

Available at drug stores. This kills microscopic bugs and snail eggs. 10 teaspoons to a gallon of water. Soak the plants for up to three days.

Household bleach

1 part bleach to 19 parts water. Effective against pathogens, algae, and snails. Can also cause severe damage to plants, particularly sensitive stem plants. Do not allow the roots, bulbs, or rhizome to come in contact with the bleach. Soak for two minutes and rinse completely with clear water and de-chlorinator.