Planted Tanks

Aquasoil is the best all-around choice for most planted tanks. It provides nutrients, lowers pH slightly, and supports root growth. For a budget option, use an inert gravel base with root tabs placed near heavy root feeders like Cryptocoryne and Amazon swords.

No, many beautiful planted tanks run without CO2. Low-tech setups using aquasoil, moderate lighting, and easy plants like Anubias, Java fern, and Cryptocoryne can thrive. CO2 becomes necessary if you want fast-growing stem plants or carpet plants like Monte Carlo.

Root tabs are slow-release fertilizer capsules you bury in the substrate. They provide nutrients directly to plant roots. Most root tabs are safe for shrimp if used as directed. Avoid pushing them too close to the surface where shrimp might ingest them.