Just Planted Some Plants

[LookingToLearn]

I just planted some Elodea, a Java Fern and an Amazon Sword in my new tank. I am just wondering how long until I can breathe again? LOL... If they are still looking good tomorrow are the chances good that they will live?
Also, should I leave the light on for longer than 14 hours the first night? I have no fish in the tank at this point so if you think it would help the plants...

Thanx so much for your help!

 

[flyhawk]

What are your tank specs.?(lighting,gravel,fertilizer,etc.)

 

[Colin_T]

if the Elodia hasn't started to rot (go brown) after a few days it should be fine. The Swordplant and Java fern can take a couple of weeks to start rotting. But they are all pretty tough plants so I wouldn't worry too much.

You can have the lights on for up 16 hours per day, but no more. Start off with 8-10 hours because there are only a few plants in the tank. If they do well and you don't get any (or much) algae on the glass you can increase the lighting period if you like. If you get lots of algae growing everywhere, then decrease the lighting period.

 

[frozenbarb]

Leaving the lights on longer will not cover for the lack light/watt. You need to tell us about your tank and light how much watts?

Plant need as much light as they need darkness for them to grow.
Plants grow at night just like we do when we sleep. So I would not advise you leave the lights on for 13+ hours..

 

[Colin_T]

Plants and fish need 8 hours rest. They can have light for the rest of the time. If you want proof of that statement look at the tropics. The sun comes up at 4am and goes down at 8pm. That means there is 16hours of light and 8 hours of dark. Most aquarium plants are from the tropics.
Although the light at either end of those times is only low it is still there and the plants will be photosynthesising during that time.
Most people only have their lights on for 8-10 hours so the algae doesn't go mad, and to limit their power bill.