Beginner plants for aquariums - how to choose
The Best Plants for Beginners Starting Their First Planted Freshwater Aquarium #
Embarking on the journey of setting up a planted freshwater aquarium can be both exciting and daunting. The vibrant greens of aquatic plants not only enhance the beauty of your tank but also play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy environment for your fish. For beginners, selecting the right plants is essential to ensure success without overwhelming yourself with high-maintenance species. This guide will introduce you to some of the best beginner-friendly plants that are easy to care for, resilient, and aesthetically pleasing.
1. Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) #
Java Fern is a popular choice for beginners due to its hardy nature and unique appearance. It thrives in a wide range of water conditions and prefer very low to moderate light levels. High light levels can in fact lead to 'burn'.
Java Ferns are epiphytes, meaning they grow on surfaces such as rocks and driftwood rather than being planted in the substrate. This characteristic makes them versatile and easy to incorporate into various aquascapes.
Also be aware that java ferns can die back only to regrow as they adjust to different living conditions and water parameters.
Care Tips: #
- Lighting: Low to moderate
- Temperature: 68-82°F (20-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Placement: Attach to rocks, driftwood, or decorations using thread, fishing line or gel super glue
2. Anubias (Anubias barteri) #
Anubias is another excellent plant for beginners, known for its broad, dark green leaves and robust nature. Similar to Java Fern, Anubias is an epiphyte and should not be buried in the substrate. Its slow growth rate means it requires minimal maintenance, and it can thrive in a variety of tank conditions.
Care Tips: #
- Lighting: Low to moderate
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Placement: Attach to rocks or driftwood, or place in shaded areas of the tank
3. Amazon Sword (Echinodorus amazonicus) #
The Amazon Sword is a classic aquarium plant that provides a lush, green backdrop. Its large, sword-shaped leaves can reach impressive sizes, making it a focal point in your tank. Although it requires more light than some other beginner plants, its growth and care are relatively straightforward. For smaller aquariums there are dwarf varieties available.
Care Tips: #
- Lighting: Moderate to high
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- Placement: Plant in the substrate, providing ample space for root development
4. Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) #
Java Moss is a versatile and easy-to-care-for plant that can be used in various ways within your aquarium. It can be attached to rocks, driftwood, or even used as a carpet. Java Moss thrives in low light and requires minimal maintenance, making it perfect for beginners.
Care Tips: #
- Lighting: Low to moderate
- Temperature: 59-86°F (15-30°C)
- pH: 5.0-8.0
- Placement: Attach to surfaces or let it float freely in the tank
Where to buy #
5. Cryptocoryne (Cryptocoryne wendtii) #
Cryptocoryne, commonly referred to as Crypts, are well-loved for their hardiness and variety of leaf shapes and colors. They can adapt to a wide range of conditions, although they may undergo "crypt melt" when first introduced to a new environment. This is normal and the plants usually recover well.
Once established and well rooted, crypts will often send out runners creating a number of plantlets that can be detached and removed or positioned elsewhere in your aquarium.
Care Tips: #
- Lighting: Low to moderate
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Placement: Plant in the substrate, leaving room for growth
Where to buy #
6. Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) #
Hornwort is a fast-growing plant that helps improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients. It can be floated or anchored in the substrate and does not require any special care. Its rapid growth can help outcompete algae, making it a great choice for new tanks.
Care Tips: #
- Lighting: Moderate
- Temperature: 59-86°F (15-30°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Placement: Float freely or anchor in the substrate
7. Water Wisteria (Hygrophila difformis) #
Water Wisteria is an adaptable plant known for its intricate, lace-like leaves. It can be planted in the substrate or used as a floating plant. Water Wisteria grows quickly, providing ample cover for fish and contributing to a balanced ecosystem by utilizing excess nutrients.
Care Tips: #
- Lighting: Moderate
- Temperature: 70-82°F (21-28°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- Placement: Plant in the substrate or use as a floating plant
8. Vallisneria (Vallisneria spiralis) #
Vallisneria, also known as Eelgrass or Vallis, is a grass-like plant that can create a stunning underwater meadow. It's easy to grow and propagate, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Vallisneria prefers moderate lighting but can adapt to lower light conditions.
Care Tips: #
- Lighting: Moderate
- Temperature: 64-82°F (18-28°C)
- pH: 6.5-8.0
- Placement: Plant in the substrate, spacing plants to allow for runners to spread
9. Duckweed (Lemna minor) #
Duckweed is a small floating plant that grows rapidly and provides excellent surface cover. It helps reduce algae growth by shading the water (handy if you find your lighting a little overpowered for your needs) and absorbing excess nutrients. Duckweed is very low maintenance, making it suitable for beginners, although its rapid growth may require occasional thinning.
For those interested in more advanced plant nutrition techniques, duckweed is used as an indicator of sufficient nutrients as part of the duckweed index.
Care Tips: #
- Lighting: Low to high
- Temperature: 60-90°F (15-32°C)
- pH: 5.0-9.0
- Placement: Float on the water surface
10. Marimo Moss Ball (Aegagropila linnaei) #
Marimo Moss Balls are unique, spherical algae formations that add a charming and quirky touch to any aquarium. They are very easy to care for and can be placed anywhere in the tank. They help absorb nitrates and contribute to the overall health of your aquarium.
Care Tips: #
- Lighting: Low to moderate
- Temperature: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
- pH: 6.0-8.0
- Placement: Place on the substrate or decorate as desired
- Maintenance: Gently rolling them by hand helps maintain their spherical shape. Do this every few days, ensuring even exposure to light and water flow.
Conclusion #
Starting a planted freshwater aquarium can be a rewarding experience, especially when you choose the right plants. The species listed above are perfect for beginners due to their hardiness, ease of care, and adaptability to various water conditions. By incorporating these plants into your aquarium, you'll create a thriving, beautiful environment that benefits both your fish and your enjoyment as an aquarist.
Happy planting!
