How to move plants around.

[LLG]

I am going to change my small (29g) tank - it's planted and I want to move the plants to one side so that the other side can have all sand for multies. What is the best way to do it?

The tank has 5 danios. Should I take them out and put them in a bowl while redecorating?
How much of the water should I take out to replant it?

Thanks.

 

[Barliman]

You don't say what kind of plants, but I assume they're rooted, such as jungle val. Replanting is pretty straightforward: slip a couple of fingers under the plant to loosen in, then gently lift it up until it's freed. I usually trim the roots to about an inch to make replanting easier, as well as use planting tongs. You should have to move the fish: they'll just avoid your hands. I find it simplest to replant while doing a water change - after removing half the water, but before adding fresh. It seems easier to get the plants secured when the water level is lower.