Simple betta set up

[TheTenthDoctor]

For about a year I have been struggling to keep planted tanks. I want one that is going to work long term. So here is my plan. 1 anubias plant. guppy grass. Some floating plants. 1 cap full of flourish fertlizer twice a week. Some dirt at the bottom with some clay. Does anyone think this is a sustainable tank? The tank is 5.5 gallons and has a shop light

 

[Colin_T]

Anubias are not true aquatic plants.

You should use an iron based plant fertiliser and test the iron levels in the tank before adding fertiliser. If you add fertiliser without testing, you could be under dosing or worse, overdosing.

Don't use dirt (potting mix or soil from the garden) because it contains organic matter that breaks down and releases ammonia for months after it is added to the tank.

If you want to use sand, get a clean sand suitable for aquariums.

The best way to use clay is to make small balls about 10mm (1/2 inch) in diameter and let them dry. Then push them into the substrate under plants.

 

[Ingrid]

Lots of shops sell special plant substrates