5 Gallon Project

[Haileyjade]

Hi all,

I have decided to set up and cycle a 5 gallon tank in the near future. I have been wanting to do easy to care for live plants in my established 10 gallon, but I figured I would try a 'test run' in the new tank before swapping out substrate an everything in the bigger tank.

I don't have much planned for stocking. Probably a single betta and a nerite snail or a couple shrimp later on down the road. Probably a moss ball as well, I think they are rather interesting.

My question is: The tank is low tech with simple LEF lighting. What kind of substrate should I purchase for a planted aquarium? I do like the look of sand and would like to do that on top if possible. I've looked through some how to articles but come away feeling confused. I just need some dl suggestions on good starter plants and a run down of how to start them.

Thanks in advance!

 

[cfosgate]

I do much the same thing in a small low-tech growout tank. I'm using miracle grow organic soil that I sifted to remove large organic particles. I put a sand cap on top of the soil and have seen some success with this combination over the last few months. Best of all it's very inexpensive.

 

[Haileyjade]

What kind of plants do you recommend for someone new to keeping them?

Darn my phone. I meant LED lights, lol.

 

[cfosgate]

I went super cheap and have CFLs with $8.00 reflectors from Home Depot or Lowes. http://www.homedepot.com/p/HDX-75-Watt-Incandescent-Clamp-Light-CE-200PDQ/100354513

 

[Haileyjade]

Hmm. I wonder how I could rig something like that up while still using a hood. I'm not comfortable keeping a betta without one as I've had a few jumpers in the past.

 

[cfosgate]

With LED lighting in a low-tech tank you would be fine with Anubias, Java moss, crypts, and even water Lilly

 

[Haileyjade]

Awesome, thank you. I will look into these. I hope to get the tank tomorrow and work on setting it up to cycle within the week.