Hi. I have kept aquariums for awhile and have always wanted to try one
with live plants, but fear has stopped me! I would like to start out
with a 10 gal. tank to see how it goes. I have an economy incandescent
hood with 2 all-glass 6500k 10 wt. flourescent bulbs to use that a guy
in a LSF assured me would be adequate for most freshwater plants if
left on for 12 hours daily. All-glass advertises that they are
suitable for aquarium plants, as well. Since this is my first attempt,
I have a few questions I am hoping somebody can answer: What is the
best thing to use for substrate? I have read that Flourite is good.
Would I need to supplement with plant food periodically, and if so,
does anybody have a recommendation? Also, I have read that it is not
necessary nor is it advisable to use airstones in the tank as they
drive off much-needed CO2 from the water - do you agree with that?
Lastly, is it necessary to get some sort of CO2 generator, as well, or
can I get by with out one? BTW, the PH of my water is around 7.5 out
of the well. Thanks for any and all advice.