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Going to plant 14 gallon this weekend..a little help please

2K views 9 replies 4 participants last post by  cajunmomof4 
#1 ·
Ok I have a 14 gallon I am planning on planting with the following this weekend
2 of : Cryptocoryne wendtii red or green

2 of : HEMIANTHUS CALLITRICHOIDES ROCKS

1 of : Isotoes lacustis

2 of : Marimo balls

1 of : Marsilea Quadrifolia fourleaf clover (12 stems)

1 of : Petite Anubias Nana

I plan on using potting soil as a substrate, topped with natural gravel. i have read that planted tanks do not need to be cycled. Is this true? And what about filtration? I have a HOB filter for this tank. It should be running right? or should I go with a DIY songe filter? Both? neither? HELP is appreciated. Oh and I also plan on setting up a DIY Co2 injector.
 
#2 ·
Yes, planted tanks need to be cycled and yes you should continue to run your HOB. How do you plan on keeping to potting soil from mucking up the water when you put your plants in and gravel vac the areas without plant roots? Eco complete would be a better choice.
 
#4 ·
They've got it planted so it can't really be vacced all that much and they can't have it stocked with anything that might move the gravel around. Seems kinda icky and just too complicated to me. Petsmart I don't think carries it but you can order it online...
 
#5 ·
Yes i am rethinking the idea........ hmm there is a place that specializes in landscaoing with aquatic plants not too far from me. I think I will check if they have some better substrate, or if they can get some faster than I can order it. My plants are going to be in today or tomorrow. I will have to keep them in a bucket till I can get something suitable.
 
#6 ·
You do not have to cycle a tank before addfing plants, Is a good idea to cycle before adding fish. The plants you chose are interesting:
2 of : Cryptocoryne wendtii red or green
2 of : HEMIANTHUS CALLITRICHOIDES ROCKS
1 of : Isotoes lacustis (Isoetes lacustris)
2 of : Marimo balls
1 of : Marsilea Quadrifolia fourleaf clover (12 stems)
1 of : Petite Anubias Nana

Just a heads up, the Wendtii will overtake the tank under descent lighting and Marimo balls need some kind of movement or current to stay round and not turn into just a sheet of algae.

From low light to high light and from low needs substrate to rich substrate. I like it personally but be ready for some challenges. If you can find it locally or order it go with the Eco. I have never personally used it but when I can afford it I will use nothing else for plants.
 
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