new to planting

[jdluvsjane]

hi i have tried in the past to buy a few plants and put them in my aquarium but every time i do this they just die i have even put some fertilizers in the water and that did not help i contemplating on buying a 55 gal plant setup but before i do i would like to know how to keep them alive thank you for your help

 

[fishwatcher]

What kind of lighting do you have? That's probably one of the most important things. If it isn't the right kind or enough, the plants won't live/thrive. You also have to make sure the plants are aquatic plants, not regular plants that are being sold for the aquarium.

 

[zig]

Dont worry its a common problem, as has been said lighting is probably the most important factor, read the pinned article at the top of this page to give you a good idea of where to get started.

Obviously there are other factors, a good substrate, fertilising and the use of the correct plants for your setup etc.

But without correct lighting you will fall at the first hurdle, so id suggest you read that first and if you have any other questions just ask.

 

[jdluvsjane]

i have too 30 watt full spectrum bulbs that i had bought at walmart and the plants that ai have bought are for aquarium underwater submersion

 

[Vivienne]

You have my sympathies !! I'm new to this and have been struggling to keep plants alive too. How long did your plants last before they started to look bad ?