As a passionate tropical fish guy, I’ve discovered that creating a live plant fish tank is like painting a living, breathing masterpiece. It’s not just about the fish; it’s about crafting an entire ecosystem that’s both visually stunning and beneficial for your aquatic pets. In this article, I’ll share my experiences and insights on setting up the best beginner live plants fish tank, helping you transform your aquarium into a lush underwater paradise.

Benefits of live plants in fish tanks

Let me tell you, adding live plants to your fish tank is a great thing to do. Not only do they create a more natural and aesthetically pleasing environment, but they also offer numerous benefits for your fish. Live plants help oxygenate the water, absorb harmful nutrients, and provide hiding spots for shy fish. Plus, they can even help reduce algae growth by competing for nutrients. It’s like having a team of tiny, green helpers maintaining your tank’s ecosystem!

Considerations for choosing live plants

Before we dive into the best plants for your aquarium, it’s essential to consider a few factors. Think about your tank size, lighting setup, and the types of fish you have. Some plants require more light and nutrients than others, while some fish might see certain plants as a tasty snack. It’s all about finding the right balance, just like in nature.

Best Beginner Live Plants Fish Tank- 6 Great Options

Now, let’s explore some of the best live plants that can turn your fish tank into an underwater oasis. I’ve personally tried and tested these species, and I’m excited to share my experiences with you.

Easy-to-grow options

If you’re new to planted tanks or looking for low-maintenance options, these plants are perfect for you.

Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus)

Java Fern is like the loyal friend of the aquarium world – it’s hardy, adaptable, and always there for you. This plant doesn’t need to be planted in substrate; you can attach it to driftwood or rocks using fishing line or aquarium-safe glue. Its beautiful, elongated leaves provide excellent hiding spots for small fish and shrimp. In my experience, Java Fern thrives in low to moderate light and doesn’t require CO2 supplementation, making it perfect for beginners.

Anubias (Anubias barteri)

Anubias is another fantastic low-maintenance plant that I absolutely adore. Its thick, dark green leaves are resistant to most fish, even the notorious plant-nibblers. Like Java Fern, Anubias can be attached to hardscape elements rather than planted in the substrate. I’ve found that it grows slowly but steadily, adding a touch of lush greenery to any aquascape. It’s perfect for creating natural-looking overhangs and shaded areas in your tank.

Mid-level difficulty plants

Ready to level up your planted tank game? These plants offer a bit more challenge but reward you with stunning growth and appearance.

Amazon Sword (Echinodorus bleheri)

The Amazon Sword is like the gentle giant of the aquarium plant world. With its broad, sword-shaped leaves, it can grow quite large and become a stunning centerpiece in your tank. I’ve had great success planting it in nutrient-rich substrate and providing moderate to high lighting. While it may take some time to establish, once it does, you’ll be rewarded with rapid growth and potentially even flowering stems that reach the water’s surface.

Cryptocoryne (Cryptocoryne wendtii)

Cryptocoryne, or “Crypts” as we enthusiasts like to call them, are versatile plants that come in various colors and shapes. I’ve found them to be excellent for creating lush foregrounds and midgrounds in my tanks. They prefer moderate lighting and do well in most substrates. One thing to note – Crypts can sometimes experience “crypt melt” when first introduced to a new environment, but don’t panic! With patience, they’ll bounce back and grow even stronger.

Advanced plant options- OK, So- Maybe Not For Beginners

For those ready to take on a challenge and create a truly spectacular aquarium, this plant is worth considering.

Dwarf Baby Tears (Hemianthus callitrichoides)

Dwarf Baby Tears, often called “HC” in the hobby, is the holy grail of carpeting plants. When successful, it creates a lush, green carpet that looks like a miniature underwater meadow. I’ll be honest – this plant requires high light, CO2 injection, and careful nutrient management. But the results are absolutely breathtaking. In my high-tech tank, I’ve managed to grow a dense carpet of HC that never fails to impress.

Setting Up Your Beginner Live Plants Fish Tank

Now that we’ve covered some fantastic plant options, let’s talk about how to set up your live plant fish tank for success.

• Choosing the right substrate– The foundation of any great planted tank is the substrate. I’ve experimented with various options, and my go-to choice is a nutrient-rich aquarium soil capped with fine gravel. This combination provides essential nutrients for root-feeding plants while maintaining a clean look. For those new to planted tanks, there are also pre-made substrates specifically designed for aquatic plants that work wonderfully.
• Lighting requirements– Lighting is crucial for plant growth and can make or break your planted tank. In my experience, LED lights designed for planted aquariums offer the best balance of performance and energy efficiency. For low-light plants like Java Fern and Anubias, you can get away with moderate lighting. However, for more demanding plants like Dwarf Baby Tears, you’ll need high-intensity lights with adjustable settings to fine-tune your lighting period and intensity.
• Fertilization and CO2– To really see your plants thrive, you’ll need to think about fertilization and CO2. I use a combination of root tabs for heavy root feeders like Amazon Swords and liquid fertilizers for water column feeders. As for CO2, it’s not necessary for all setups, but it can significantly boost plant growth and health. I started with a simple DIY CO2 system and later upgraded to a pressurized setup for more precise control. You can buy a pressurized system here… but be careful!

Maintaining Your Beginner Live Plants Fish Tank

Creating a beautiful planted tank is just the beginning – maintaining it is where the real fun begins!

• Pruning and trimming– Regular pruning is essential to keep your plants healthy and your tank looking its best. I find it therapeutic to spend time each week trimming back fast-growing stems and removing any dead or yellowing leaves. This not only maintains the aesthetic appeal but also promotes healthier growth.
• Balancing nutrients– Maintaining the right balance of nutrients is like conducting an orchestra – it requires attention and fine-tuning. I regularly test my water parameters and adjust my fertilization routine accordingly. It’s important to watch for signs of nutrient deficiencies in your plants, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth, and respond promptly.
• Dealing with algae– Algae is a natural part of any aquatic ecosystem, but it can become a nuisance if left unchecked. In my experience, the key to algae control is balance. Ensure your plants are healthy and growing well, as they’ll compete with algae for nutrients. I also incorporate algae-eating fish and shrimp into my tanks as a natural cleanup crew.

Creating and maintaining a live plant fish tank is a rewarding journey that combines science, art, and a bit of green-thumb magic. It’s about creating a thriving ecosystem where both plants and fish can flourish. Remember, every tank is unique, and part of the joy is in experimenting and learning what works best for your specific setup.

Whether you’re just starting with easy plants like Java Fern or diving into the world of high-tech planted tanks with carpeting plants, the key is patience and persistence. Don’t be discouraged by initial setbacks – even experienced aquarists face challenges. With time, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of your aquatic ecosystem and the ability to create truly spectacular underwater landscapes.

So, dive in, get your hands wet, and watch as your aquarium transforms into a vibrant, living work of art. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of sitting back and admiring a lush, thriving planted tank that you’ve cultivated with your own hands. Happy planting- er, fishing!

FAQs

1. How often should I fertilize my live plant fish tank? The frequency of fertilization depends on your plant species and tank setup. Generally, I recommend dosing liquid fertilizers 1-3 times a week and replacing root tabs every 3-4 months.
2. Can I have a planted tank with goldfish? Yes, but it’s challenging as goldfish often uproot or eat plants. Opt for tough plants like Anubias or Java Fern, and consider anchoring them to hardscape rather than planting in substrate.
3. Do I need special lighting for a planted tank? While not always necessary, specially designed aquarium plant lights can significantly improve plant growth and health, especially for more demanding species.
4. How do I prevent algae overgrowth in my planted tank? Balance is key. Ensure proper lighting duration (8-10 hours per day), maintain good water quality, avoid overfeeding, and consider adding algae-eating creatures to your cleanup crew.
5. Can I use regular potting soil for my aquarium plants? I don’t recommend it. Regular potting soil can contain harmful chemicals and organics. Instead, use aquarium-specific planted tank substrates or aqua soil for best results and safety.