How to Set Up Plants in an Aquarium

Aquariums with natural plants create an aquatic ecosystem for your fish that closely resembles what you would find in nature. A complementary relationship exists between fish and plants; fish emit carbon dioxide and other nutrients that are necessary for plants to thrive and, in turn, the plants filtrate the water as well as provide oxygen. This creates an environment in which the fish can thrive. An aquarium with plants can look beautiful in a home and can be enjoyed by everyone who passes by.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Aquarium stand
  • Substrate
  • Dechlorinated water
  • Filter
  • Heater
  • Water conditioner
  • Plant lamp
  • Aquatic plants
  • Aquatic plant fertilizer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up the aquarium and stand. Rinse the substrate using warm tap water. Add the substrate to the bottom of the aquarium. Make sure the substrate you use is rich in minerals and of high quality, as the substrate is where your plants' roots will get their nutrients.

    • 2

      Fill the aquarium until an inch from the top with dechlorinated water. Install the filter and heater. Adjust the pH of the water between 6.5 and 7.5 by using a water conditioner. A pH between 6.5 and 7.5 is the pH appropriate for fish and plants and must be monitored constantly.

    • 3

      Replace the fluorescent lamp that comes in an aquarium hood with a plant lamp. Plant lamps are recommended because fluorescent lamps do not promote plant growth.

    • 4

      Begin planting the aquatic plants by placing the roots deep into the substrate. Place long plants in the background, mid-sized plants in the mid-ground and short plants in the foreground. Do not put fish into the tank until the plants have been in there for at least two weeks.

    • 5

      Add aquatic plant fertilizer after your plants begin to grow, which can take up to three weeks. Follow manufacturer's instructions for the correct amount.