frugal nail tips?

hi there! i've been lurking r/frugal for a while but i've finally found something i need some help with!

i got my nails done a while back & instantly loved it but it's not realistic to have done routinely. i am hoping to find some effective ways to help my nails grow long & be strong without buying all kinds of fancy products 😅 i've tried biotin but didn't really notice a change if i'm honest.

i've always had very weak nails. they are soft/bendy & always split at the sides when they get long & are unsalvageable. they do not grow particularly fast either. i've never really been able to grow them long all at the same time.

if anyone has any tips or general information it would so greatly appreciated ♡

thank you!