new to plants

[newfishies]

so far i have only had java moss, and one small plant which i think is java fern.

i am starting a 20 long, which only has the premade hood/lights, which houses a 20 W flousrescent bulb

i would like this to be a planted tank, so i plan to order some from one of the links pinned above.

my questions are

1. with a sand substrate, should i mix in laterite, eco complete or some other plant food with it?
2. will low-light plants be okay with 1 wpg?

i know i had more questions, but i can't remember what they were....

any and all suggestions are welcome!!! thanks!!

 

[kenneth_kpe]

1. Sand and food
A : YES!! sand is just sand there is nothing in it pick your sand wisely BTW
2. will low lights plant be ok with 1WPG
No, i dont think so, with a 20g, i think the WPG rule tends to break up, push for at least 2WPG ?

somebody correct me if im wrong

 

[jimbooo]

laterite is always a worthwhile addition (so i hear) i've just added it to my 10 gallon and 40 gallon. for the effort it took me it better make a difference.

why dont you add another tube to the hood you'll be able to grow much better plants with more light.

 

[newfishies]

"why dont you add another tube to the hood you'll be able to grow much better plants with more light. "

all i have is the factory made hood, so i don't know if i can alter it i guess i'll venture into the DIY section

i bought pool filter sand (a 50# bag) already, and was wondering if i needed to add plant food to it!!

 

[jimbooo]

where theres a will theres a way.

both my tanks have the original hoods.

this one had 1 tube at first. i added the bottom one

this had 2 at first (the middle 2) the outer tubes balance on the reflectors and centre brace

the difference in both tanks is HUGE!!