Thinking Of Having A Planted Tank

[buttercupbabe078]

I've never had a planted tank and from looking at all the pics of them they look really good.
I was just wondering how hard it was to have a planted tank and what equipment etc I might need.
Also is it a good idea for some one who has never had one to have one?

 

[darrene]

I've never had a planted tank and from looking at all the pics of them they look really good.
I was just wondering how hard it was to have a planted tank and what equipment etc I might need.
Also is it a good idea for some one who has never had one to have one?

its a good idea to start one even if you haven't before. we are all new to it at some point

 

[montyII]

I was just wondering how hard it was to have a planted tank

It's not that hard once you've done your research. It can be a little more time consuming than an unplanted tank (putting fertilisers in every couple of days, trimming plants, big weekly water changes etc) but there are less time consuming methods if you want a low-maintenance tank.

and what equipment etc I might need.

You really need to start with a nutrient rich substrate, the right lighting, and possibly CO2 (although not everybody uses it).

I'd say a good first step is to do heaps of research. I wouldn't bother asking too much at your lfs. You can find pretty much everything you need to know on this forum, the pinned threads are very useful. And ask lots of questions!

 

[George Farmer]

Go for it.

Figure out what you want in terms of what budget you have, how much spare time, how much you like pruning etc. etc.

Then choose what path is right for you. Lower-tech (low light, non-CO2, easy plants) up to hi-tech (high light, CO2 injection, regular ferts.)

Low-tech is generally lower cost, lower maintenance. Hi-tech, high cost, higher maintenance, but generally more scope for plant choice and aquascaping.

The pinned threads are a good start. If there's any questions after reading them then just ask.

 

[reggieschuey]

agree! i say just go for it! i would suggest starting off slowly with hardier plants , ie anubias, wisteria, They usually are easy to keep. then if keen on plants go for more

 

[john starkey]

HI, as george says its down to your budget,how much time you want to spend on it,and most of all patience, but my one tip is use fast growing plants for the initial planting and take a lok at the tropica web site good luck john.