If you're new to keeping an aquarium, you may be wondering what plants are best for beginners. In this article, I will introduce you to some natural plants that are easy to keep in any aquarium, even for beginners. While plastic plants are the easiest option, they don't provide natural aeration for the aquarium. On the other hand, live plants not only add beauty to your tank but also contribute to a healthier ecosystem for your fish. Let's explore some of the easiest and most popular aquarium plants for beginners.
Easiest Plants for your Fish Tank
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Easy but Limited Benefits Plastic Plants Plastic plants are the simplest option for aquarium decoration. They don't require any special care and won't die on you. However, they don't provide the same benefits as live plants. When live plants die, they provide nutrients to the aquarium, contribute to oxygen and carbon dioxide cycles, and create a more natural environment for your fish. While plastic plants can still serve as hiding places for smaller fish, they don't offer the same aeration and ecosystem benefits as live plants. If you're looking to create a thriving and enjoyable aquarium experience, it's recommended to go with live plants and live fish. |
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Versatile and Low Maintenance Anubias Barteri Anubias is a popular choice for beginner aquariums because of its versatility and low maintenance requirements. It can be placed anywhere in the aquarium and can even be bent to create a unique landscape. Anubias doesn't need a lot of light or nutrition to thrive, making it a great option for beginners. One common and hardy variety is Anubias barteri, which is available in different sizes. While Anubias plants can be a bit expensive, they are worth the investment as they are known to be resilient and long-lasting. |
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Hardy and Affordable Amazon Sword The Amazon sword, scientifically known as Echinodorus Bleheri, is another popular choice for beginner aquariums. It is the most common sword plant sold in the trade due to its hardiness and affordability. Amazon swords come in different sizes, and even imperfect plants can be a great addition to your tank. They can be planted directly in the aquarium, with smaller plants placed in the front and larger ones in the background. Amazon swords require moderate lighting and can thrive with regular LED aquarium lights for about six hours a day. |
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Beautiful and Nutrient-Rich Cryptocoryne Wentii The Amazon sword, scientifically known as Echinodorus Bleheri, is another popular choice for beginner aquariums. It is the most common sword plant sold in the trade due to its hardiness and affordability. Amazon swords come in different sizes, and even imperfect plants can be a great addition to your tank. They can be planted directly in the aquarium, with smaller plants placed in the front and larger ones in the background. Amazon swords require moderate lighting and can thrive with regular LED aquarium lights for about six hours a day. |
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Versatile and Low Light Tolerant Java Fern Java Fern is one of the easiest plants to keep in an aquarium, making it perfect for beginners. It has long, narrow leaves similar to the Amazon sword but grows at a slower pace. Java Fern can be planted in the substrate or attached to rocks or driftwood using aquarium glue. One advantage of Java Fern is its tolerance for low light conditions, making it suitable for areas with shading in the aquarium. It's a versatile plant that adds a touch of beauty to any tank. |
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Hardy and Affordable Onion Plant The Onion Plant, also known as Crinum calamistratum, is the cheapest plant in the aquarium trade and incredibly easy to keep. It can thrive in various lighting conditions and can be placed anywhere in the aquarium. The Onion Plant is known for its resilience and ability to adapt to different environments. It's a great option for beginners who want a low-maintenance plant that will add beauty to their tank. |
Using Granulated Lava Rock for Better Plant Growth
If you want your plants to thrive, consider using lava rock as a substrate instead of traditional pea gravel. Lava rock provides all the necessary nutrients for plants to grow and flourish. It's becoming increasingly popular in the aquarium trade due to its effectiveness in supporting plant growth. By planting your live plants directly into lava rock, you can ensure they receive the nutrients they need to thrive.
There you have it! Five of The Best Aquarium Plants for Beginners
In this article, we've explored some of the easiest and most popular aquarium plants for beginners. While plastic plants are the simplest option, they don't offer the same benefits as live plants. Anubias, Amazon sword, Cryptocoryne, Java Fern, and Onion Plant are all great choices for beginners due to their low maintenance requirements and resilience. By choosing live plants and providing them with the right conditions, you can create a beautiful and thriving ecosystem for your fish. Consider using lava rock as a substrate to enhance plant growth and provide essential nutrients. With these easy-to-keep plants, you can enjoy a vibrant and healthy aquarium that both you and your fish will love.