Start up question...

[Fish Hobbiest]

Ive never had a planted tank before so I want to start with my small tank.

Im going to my lfs tomorow to buy real plants for my 29g, but do I really need those whole CO2 systems? im not going to heavily plant my tank probly just like 3 hardy plants and if I like it then ill plant it some more in the future...

also, what are some good hardy plants to start out with? (keep in mind I have tetras)

any other tips and suggestions are also welcome.

 

[rocker92]

how much light do you have over the tank????

 

[Fish Hobbiest]

its just a 25watt fluorescent bulb that came with the kit

 

[rocker92]

either you want up grade or just go with low light plants. i think something like java fern might work.

 

[Fish Hobbiest]

what are some basics on upkeep with plants? such as java fern

my substrate is play sand, so will i have to add plant tablets to enrich my substrate?
and by having plants do I have to keep a closer eye on my parameters?

sorry for all the questions but when it comes to plants im a noob.

 

[rocker92]

what are some basics on upkeep with plants? such as java fern

my substrate is play sand, so will i have to add plant tablets to enrich my substrate? no the fish waste will fertilize the plants.
and by having plants do I have to keep a closer eye on my parameters? not that i know of. correct me if im wrong but i think that plants help stalbalize the prams.

sorry for all the questions but when it comes to plants im a noob. it is better to ask Q's now.. than when you have killed many things!!!!

/

 

[Fish Hobbiest]

thanks for the answers, I just hope that my lfs has java fern, and if not i hope i get lucky at petsmart.

do you know of any other low light hardy plants that dont require CO2?

 

[rocker92]

if you want quick anwsers PM Mgammer, or msjinxd

 

[rocker92]

i have heard that crypts are good starters. i will look around for more!!

 

[red_wall]

The Java Fern will be fine.
It will take the nutrients from fish waste
The plant sucks up some of the bad things in the water, so if anything, you don't really need to watch as often (not really, but you know what I mean)
Good luck