Starting a planted tank

[litebrite8765]

I have not have much success because I am just using the hood and led lights that my 37 gallon tall tank came with. My plants have died. I will be buying a 30 inch coralife t5ho 2x31 watt light fixture. Bulbs are 1 6700k and 1 colormax bulb. Will this be sufficient? I am always changing my regular gravel to eco complete (3 bags, regular black). I will be ordering plants probably from peabodys. Any other suggestions? What plants to start with? Should I use root tabs or liquid ferts?

 

[litebrite8765]

*also changing my gravel to ecocomplete

 

[Nikko7287]

I'm not a pro but I run 2 bulb 6700k t5ho with just eco complete about 2.5" deep on a 75 gallon and my plants are doing fine so should yours I wouldn't worry. If I was you I would get a bottle if seachem flourish excel it's liquid c02 you will see a difference in a week or less I did. I also under dose to be safe and save money the c02 will help keep your allege under control with the lights and gravel

 

[Nikko7287]

Sorry I forgot to add I use liquid ferts monthly because the eco complete has it in it already and I don't want to over do it some people say the ferts don't last long in it but it's a porous gravel meant to hold and lock them in...best of luck

 

[litebrite8765]

Thanks so much. Any plants you would suggest?

 

[litebrite8765]

And where did you buy or order your lighting fixture?

 

[Nikko7287]

As for plants I would start off with cheap hardy plants such as Amazon sord

 

[Nikko7287]

Sorry I don't know why that sent ha but anyway Amazon sword. Water sprite and any type of Anubias plant there hardy and cheap as for the light I got a zoomed t5ho for 45$ new at petco by my house It was originally 130$ so I couldn't pass up the deal. I know it's not the top of the line but it gets the job done it didn't come with lights so I bought two 6700k Hagen light bulbs