[Lonewolfblue]

You will be ok planting the plants. I personally don't rinse new plants, as it will add some beneficial bacteria from the previous tank, if it was submerged. And as for the gravel, most any gravel will work, but plant gravel is better, but not required. What kind of plants did you get?

 

[Lonewolfblue]

I've only had a little experience with plants but from experience, there are some plants that don't do too hot in a new tank. I've noticed that plants that rely on a healthy root system usually don't take root until the gravel is established.

Throwing a sword in there right away will probably not be successful... but everything else I've added right away took off ok.

That is why Root Tabs are essential, especially in new tanks. That will provide the nutrients the plants need at the roots until enough gunk builds up to provide the nutrients for the plants.