My first planted tank

[Ian14]

So I'm in the process of setting up a 46 gallon bowfront. Here's what I got so far

Filter: eheim 2215

Substrate: 60 lbs of flourite, 20 lbs of Eco-complete

Lighting: finnex ray 2 Led

Won't be a c02 system

What do you all think? Is this a good set up so far for a low tech heavily planted tank?

 

[foster53]

Sounds like a good start for supplies. You will probably need a carbon source, and some basic fertilizers.

 

[Mebbid]

With a ray 2 I would suggest going with metricide 14 day sterilizing solution as a carbon source and either EI or pps pro dry fertilizing regimen. Both of those will help keep your tank algae free. Other than that it looks like a good setup.

Is there a reason you want both flourite and eco complete?

 

[Ian14]

I have seachem flourish right now. I'm not familiar with that stuff though. And I just wanted a mix I guess no special reason

 

[Mebbid]

I have seachem flourish right now. I'm not familiar with that stuff though. And I just wanted a mix I guess no special reason

The flourish generally isn't enough to keep a medium light tank happy and you will be hemorrhaging money for no reason through doing liquid ferts.

A dry fert pack will cost you about $20 and will last the better part of a year.

I'm not personally familiar with the pps pro method as I use EI but here is a link that gives a basic explanation.

Aquarium Plant Fertilizer | Green Leaf Aquariums

 

[Ian14]

The flourish generally isn't enough to keep a medium light tank happy and you will be hemorrhaging money for no reason through doing liquid ferts. A dry fert pack will cost you about $20 and will last the better part of a year. I'm not personally familiar with the pps pro method as I use EI but here is a link that gives a basic explanation. Aquarium Plant Fertilizer | Green Leaf Aquariums

Thanks!

 

[Old Scales]

A 46g bowfront. Nice! They make for a beautiful tank without being so huge. Good start. Congrats!

 

[Ian14]

Thank you!