New 12 gallon planted tank (help needed)

[molliwopp]

My tapwater isnt idea for many plants but java moss just wouldnt stop.

Again thats without any additives. Grew on a piece of driftwood.

The pictures way over year old.

 

[snakeapartment]

Also should I be doing water changes while cycling? I'm currently on day 3. 4/5 full tank. Water conditioner in. Nite-out put in day 1and day 3. Some Tetraplant flora pride for the few plants I put in. Tested water yesterday. So far seems on track.

I did notice though after I used the tester strips I let them sit out for a while and after a few minutes the strips kept getting darker and changing colors. Is that normal?

 

[molliwopp]

Another one.

 

[snakeapartment]

Wow! That's excellent! Love the way it looks. Sounds like I need java moss. How do you grow it on the driftwood?

 

[snakeapartment]

How do you feel the java moss works as far as stabilizing the tank and keeping it clean and safe?

 

[molliwopp]

Gently tie it with brown or green cotton thread and after a month it disolves by itself but by then the moss has grow enough to kind of grip to the wood.



A really basic tank by anyones standards but afew years ago i was pleased with it as my first tank.

I knoq from experience that it definitely needs trimming and checking. Anything hidden or rotting can cause problems.