New Tank

[scewbisnax1002]

Hey, I'm just starting a 10g tank for the first time and I have a lot of questions. So far I have the tank (10 gallons), a filter which is running at 70 liters/hr, and about 1 liter of water from my roommates tank. I want to start a planted tank and wait a while to put fish in, but I really have no clue where to start. I've been reading some of the posts on here about controlling CO2 levels and everything, but I really am not in a position to spend $300+ on CO2 tanks. My main questions are about what types of substrate to use if I want to have a grassy type of bottom. Also, I saw some Micranthemum umbrosum which looks really nice so I think I'd like to have something like that. I'm not really concerned about how fast anything grows, I'm in no hurry to get this thing going. What type of lighting will be best? I read the "basics" and I think a T5 will be good, but I'll take any advice. Also, what time of substrate is best for planted tanks? Will any plant grow in just sand or gravel, or do you need something more "earthy"? Also, any advice on what to do about amonia, nitrite/ate, pH, etc... Thanks for any advice I can get!