It’s important to ensure that you plant your live plants with the right materials. Since soil doesn’t go in an aquarium, you may want to consider gravel. However, it’s important to know what to do and how to do it effectively.
We’re going to discuss how to plant the aquarium plants in gravel and which gravel to use. You’re also going to learn what plants work well in the gravel. That way, you can create a beautiful aquatic land full of beautiful plants.
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Can You Grow Aquarium Plants in Gravel?
Many people have asked that question. Whether you’re a hobbyist or just starting out, you want to know if aquarium plants can grow on the rocks.
Ultimately, yes, you can use gravel to grow aquarium plants, even in an established tank. You need the right rocks, appropriate plants, and some rubber bands.
Generally, you want to attach the plant to the fish-safe rock with a rubber band. It should be slightly over the roots. That can weigh the plant down once it’s in the tank and keep the roots steady.
However, not all plants do well growing in gravel. Some prefer to float, and some need java moss to attach to.
How to Grow Aquarium Plants in Gravel
When you plant aquarium plants in gravel, you have to choose the right options. Most aquatic plants do well in small gravel instead of chunky rocks. Therefore, consider a gravel grain size of between 3 to 5 millimeters.
You can also use some coarse sand as the substrate. Make sure it’s anywhere from 0.12 to 2 inches in size.
To help your plants thrive better, don’t shift the substrate. This could tip the plants over or uproot them. Your goal is to ensure that the plants stay stable.
That’s especially true when you’re planting new ones. This way, the roots spread and develop correctly.
You’re also going to have to think about cleaning the gravel. When that’s needed, you should choose a siphon kit. Also, never take the substrate from your aquarium.
To Plant with Gravel
Start by layering the gravel anywhere from 2 to 3 inches over the aquarium floor. Make sure that you add fertilizer to the gravel first. Then, fill the tank halfway with some water and add your chosen plants.
Next, you want to put the plants in the gravel. Make sure that you handle the bulbs and roots gently. Then, you can cover them above their root level so that they grow properly.
Once you have done that, you can add accessories. This adds beauty and can give you a better overall aesthetic effect.
Established Fish Tank
If you already have an established fish tank, you can still plant your plants in gravel. Just make sure that the plant is attached to an appropriate rock. That way, it weighs it down and isn’t dangerous to the fish.
We recommend that you still use small amounts of substrate. Put it over the plant roots to cover and provide more support.
In general, you want to give your live aquarium plants between eight and 12 hours of sunlight each day. You should also use fertilizer regularly. Otherwise, the plants could die or become sickly.
The Best Gravel for Live Aquarium Plants
It’s nearly impossible to pick a single gravel style for all types of plants. Some of them are going to be fragile, and others have different root systems.
Remember, the gravel doesn’t offer nutrients to the plants. Many column feeders aren’t picky about their gravel type. However, some plants like to feed from the substrate.
Therefore, you might have to think more about the substrate you choose. Typically, though, fine-grain substrates that are pea-sized are going to support more plants. Things like black clay gravel are often better than others because they’re not chunky and large.
If you hope to grow substrate feeders, focus on a nutrient-rich option. They’ve got more organic nutrients and elements and can be the perfect conditions for your aquatic plants.
However, you also must consider that some products cause cloudiness in the water. You can’t see the beauty within. Plus, they can damage certain types of fish and inverts.
Therefore, you should do more research. Most people don’t use aqua soils because of that. Lighter substrates are best for beginners and those who have plants that like to feed on a water column.
Your best bet might be to use basic gravel for an aquarium. It can be different colors. Just make sure that you’re mineralizing the substrate.
It’s important to choose the right plants to put in the aquarium. Some do very well when grown in sand or gravel. These are some of the best plants for your gravel tank:
Dwarf Hairgrass
This plant makes a field on the bottom of your tank and looks like grass. Therefore, you can use it as a carpet to provide a green coating at the bottom.
It can provide shelter for your fish, but it also oxygenates the tank and cleans the water. Plus, it grows quickly and is easy to grow.
Since it’s a small plant, it can grow in your 10-gallon aquarium. However, it requires tons of light and can’t do well in shade. Typically, it likes soft substrate, such as fine gravel or sand that can’t damage the roots.
Amazon Sword
This plant is found at the Amazon river basin. The most popular species is Echinodorus Amazonicus, but there are others. It has a blade-like look and is easy to take care of.
We like that it’s suitable for beginners. When you plant it in gravel, it likes chunkier substrate than some of the others. Make sure to put it in the center of the tank so that it can spread out, too.
Anubias
Anubias has broad and thick leaves. Most people choose anubias barteri, anubias nana, and anubias afzelii, but there are other species.
You’re going to appreciate the hardiness of the plant. Even if you make many mistakes, it’s sure to thrive. Plus, it’s shorter, so it can go in a smaller aquarium.
Choose a soft and fine substrate (gravel). That way, the roots are going to grow and can get nutrients from that environment.
We recommend fine-grain gravel. It lets the roots anchor, but the sand is soft and isn’t going to damage it. You’re also going to find that it helps the plant look better while it is in the tank.
Conclusion
While some people think it’s odd to grow plants in gravel, it is a favorite among many enthusiasts. It is possible to grow aquarium plants in gravel or rocks. However, you’ve got to choose the right gravel and plants.
Most of the aquatic plants you may find are going to do fine in gravel. Still, it’s best to do a bit more research to ensure that what you want to grow is going to thrive. Otherwise, you are wasting your money and time on something that isn’t going to work.
With the right plants and gravel, you can create an aquatic land full of beauty and amazement. You’ve learned that you can grow aquarium plants in gravel. We also discussed the types of gravel available and plants that farewell with this growing medium.
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