Low-tech plant basics
- Choose easy plants first.
- Keep lighting stable.
- Do not overcomplicate fertilizer and CO2 too early.
Lighting explanation
- Low light works for hardy plants.
- Medium light gives more options.
- Too much light without nutrients can trigger algae.
Root tabs vs liquid fertilizer
- Root tabs help rooted plants.
- Liquid fertilizer helps water-column feeders.
- Some tanks need both depending on plant mix.
Rhizome warning
- Do not bury Anubias, Java fern, or similar rhizome plants.
- Attach rhizome plants to wood, rock, or decor.
Stem plant trimming
- Trim healthy tops and replant when appropriate.
- Remove melting or decaying leaves.
Plant melt explanation
- Some plants melt after shipping or changing tanks.
- Stable light, nutrients, and clean water help recovery.
- Do not assume every melting plant is dead immediately.
Shrimp-safe plant notes
- Plants and mosses give shrimp cover and grazing surfaces.
- Avoid copper exposure.
- Rinse plants before adding when appropriate.
Beginner plant list CTA
Start with easy aquarium plants for planted tanks, shrimp tanks, and beginner freshwater setups.
