Maintaining a planted aquarium is considered diffficult to many, however this is not the case. Keeping aquatic plants can be very easy and enjoyable. Simply follow these steps to be successful.
1. The Aquarium
When buying the tank, always go for the biggest size possible to fit your budget and your space. When it comes to planted tanks, bigger is not always better but can leave room for more plants.
2. The Substrate
When buying a substrate or gravel for your aquarium, keep in mind if you will at some time plant the tank. When buying the gravel, look for planting substrate on the bag, such as Flourite. By having a gravel with a fertilizer already in it, you increase your chances for a successful planted tank. If you do not wish to buy a planting substrate then yo can buy regular gravel and add a planting substrate material known as Laterite, this does the same thing as Flourite but does not have to be added when the tank is first installed.This is not to say that Flourite has to be put in from the start, it can be added later. Just to let you know, Flourite and Laterite are clays and will stain your tank's water for a few hours, but don't rinse too much or the clay will turn to nothing.
3. The Water
The water is important to the survival of anything in the tank. There can be certain chemicals in the water that will hurt plants and fish and a water treater should be added as instructed to kill any bad chemicals.
4. The Fish
Certain fish can reek havic on aquatic plants. It is important to make sure that the fish you are buying will not injure or destroy your plants. Cichlids are a good example of fish that can kill plants. One plant that can survive with cichlids is the Java Fern.
5. The Plants
Make sure that the plants that you are buying are suitable for your tank. Also make sure that you are properly equipped to handle the new plants. Have things such as fertilzer and trimming utensils. Also make sure most of the plants you buy are low maintenance and do not require a lot of light and care, this is mainly for newbie plant keepers. Some good examples are Java Fern and Java Moss.
6. You
You, the fish keeper, are in charge of keeping your plants healthy. If you are not around then the tank will suffer. Keep a good eye on the plants and GOOD LUCK!
