Gravel Vac and plants

[Bitsy]

Okay guys, this is probably going to sound pretty stupid but here goes! :p:

I am venturing into the world of live plants as of recently and just got a bunch of pearl grass. It is absolutely gorgeous and can't wait for it to fill in/carpet the front portion of my 55g. Once this has spread out some and I have good coverage going on what do I do about vaccuuimg that part of my tank?! :dance2:

Thanks to any and all advice!

[RISK2123]

once you have a densly planted tank you really cant clean the substrate. a battery operated vac works but is still more work than needed. just change the water. the plants will take care of any left over food and fish waste. a side note, ease up on feeding once the "carpet" is down there. that way you dont have to worry about excess food as much.

[webcricket]

I have pearl grass that has grown pretty dense. Once the roots are established, it really doesn't mind being shook around a bit with a gravel vac just to get some of the loose debris out.

[Bitsy]

Thanks for your responses!! That is somewhat what I was thinking, just wanted to make sure! We'll see how real plants go for me, I love the way my tank looks and nothing has even filled in yet!! I don't generally have a green thumb but hoping aquatic plants like me more than house plants!! :p: Thanks guys!

[Needeles]

Once the roots have set in you can also just run the vac over the grass. Don't rub it into the grass just hover it over the grass. It should pull up any loose gunk without hurting the plants. The plants will then use up the remaining amount of food and waste left.