Looking Into Some Plants

[vgames33]

The local pet shop has a small selection of plants. I'm thinking about getting either some java ferns or "assorted swords," since I've heard that bettas like them. What sort of things do I need in order to support a small plant population in a 10 gallon tank while keeping my betta happy?

 

[Biulu]

It depends a bit on the plants. If you are buying swords, make sure they can 'eat' through their roots, either with a good substrate or by using roottabs. Most other plants can be fed with liquid fertiliser. Another important factor is light. I am keeping swords, and have just 1 small fluorescent light tube over my 60 litre tank. Have a look at the tropica plant page to see their specific light and other demands.

 

[joycould]

I use java ferns and java moss in most of my tanks and bowls. The stuff is hard to kill and you don't need CO2, ferts or even sand or gravel to plant them. They are both low enough light that even if you don't have a light directly over your tank they will grow but they grow slowly. If you decide on java ferns you can tie them on a rock or driftwood. I don't have any swords in my tanks since I don't have enough light in mine. You have to consider how much light you have when buying plants.