How to Grow Live Plants in a Freshwater Aquarium
Growing live plants in a freshwater aquarium provides food, shelter and oxygen for the fish. They also help to balance the pH levels of the water. Live plants enhance aquarium scenery while creating plenty of hiding places for the fish. Some fish even eat the plants, so be sure to introduce nontoxic plants to the aquarium.
- Determine the plants that you want to grow. Read on the subject and research the Internet to find as much information as you can on fresh water aquarium plants. The prices of many plants differ greatly.
- Consider the size of the aquarium. Some plants have plenty of leaves and they grew very fast. You will need a large sized aquarium for large growing plants. Some plants float in the water and others are buried under the pebble rock.
- Inspect the plants to ensure that they do not have snails or other pests. Leave any new plant outside the tank for a couple of days to ensure if they are free from pests.
- Keep the plants completely submerged in the water. Ensure that you keep the water levels high so that the plants do not dry out.
- Anchor the plants to keep them from moving around in the water. You can tie them loosely on rocks until they have established their position.
- Provide adequate lighting above the aquarium. Light is very important for photosynthesis. Use fluorescent spectrum tank lights. Adjust the temperature to that is ideal for the plants and fish.
- Introduce fish into the aquarium as a way to nourish the plants. The fish waste keeps the plants healthy. It is important to note that some types of fish like the blue Crayfish feed on plants.
- Change the water regularly. Do this carefully to avoid damaging the plants. Siphon the water over the soil while avoiding the plant bed.
- Prune the plants periodically to keep them from overgrowing in the tank.
- Remove the algae that grow on the wall of the tank. This alga prevents plants from getting light that is necessary for growth. Remove algae manually when changing the tank water every week.