I’ve had it going for about 8 months now. Originally it was going to be only CRS, but unfortunately my KH was repeatedly on the rise. After testing my rocks, my water, etc I came to the conclusion that it’s due to the pea gravel I used in filter bags to prop up the rocks.

So though the CRS population has dwindled, there is still life. I got some RCS instead, which seem to be doing well, as well as 3 Amanos and 12 Pygmy Cory catfish.

Just wanted to share my aquascape :) I am happy to answer questions - I did a good amount of research but keep in mind this is my first tank.

Edit: please ignore the ugly fresh trim on the Rotala, and the horrible background!

  • SoulKaribou@lemmy.mlEnglish
    5·
    2 days ago

    Wow, well done! I have few questions:

    How many years in the hobby/attempts did it take you to reach that point ?

    Any major tip you would give ?

    Did you plant everything in one go or in batches ?

    I guess you water change/ maintenance every week ?

    • smartalec13@lemmy.worldOPEnglish
      2·
      2 days ago

      Thank you :)

      This is my first tank! What you’re seeing is a lot of research and $$$. I spent like 3 months googling, watching videos, browsing aquarium & planted tank subreddits etc. The channel that helped me the most was Green Aqua.

      I would recommend lots of plants, and a good filter. Also there are small adjustments that can be made to really “elevate” a tank, like sloping low in front to high in back.

      I planted it all in 1 batch to start, then slowly I’ve gotten more plants just to try here or there. Sometimes they don’t work out.

      Yep weekly maintenance is a 30% water change, clean both pre filter sponges. Scrape walls occasionally and clean tubes occasionally. Every other week I am trimming something. Fertilizer is Easy Green twice a week.

      Thank you :)