Aquatic Plants

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do freshwater aquarium plants need CO2 injection?
  Not necessarily. Low-tech plants like anubias, java fern, and bucephalandra grow well without CO2 injection under moderate lighting. CO2 supplementation benefits faster-growing plants and high-tech planted tanks but is optional for most beginner-friendly species.
• What are the easiest aquarium plants for beginners?
  Anubias, java fern, java moss, and bucephalandra are among the easiest plants to keep. They are slow-growing, low-light tolerant, and thrive without CO2 or fertilizers, making them perfect for beginners and low-maintenance tanks.
• How do I attach anubias and java fern to driftwood or rocks?
  Use super glue gel (cyanoacrylate) or fishing line to attach anubias and java fern to driftwood or rocks. Never bury their rhizomes in substrate — this will cause them to rot. They absorb nutrients directly through their roots and leaves.
• What lighting do freshwater aquarium plants need?
  Low-light plants like anubias, java fern, and bucephalandra thrive under 6–8 hours of moderate LED lighting daily. Avoid intense direct light on anubias as it can cause algae to grow on the leaves. A timer helps maintain a consistent photoperiod.
• Do aquarium plants need fertilizers?
  Slow-growing plants like anubias and bucephalandra have minimal nutrient needs and often get enough from fish waste. For faster growth and richer colors, a liquid all-in-one fertilizer dosed weekly is beneficial, especially in low-fish or shrimp tanks.
• Can aquarium plants grow in gravel or sand?
  Java fern, anubias, and bucephalandra don't need to be planted in substrate at all — they attach to hardscape. For rooted plants, a nutrient-rich aquasoil is ideal, though many species adapt to inert substrates like gravel or sand with regular fertilization.
• Why are my aquarium plant leaves turning yellow?
  Yellowing leaves are usually a sign of nutrient deficiency, most commonly iron or nitrogen. Dose a quality liquid fertilizer and ensure your lighting is adequate. Old leaves on slow growers like anubias may naturally yellow and can be trimmed off.
• Are freshwater plants safe for fish and shrimp?
  Yes! Live aquarium plants are completely safe and highly beneficial for fish and shrimp. They oxygenate the water, absorb harmful nitrates, reduce algae growth, and provide natural hiding spots that reduce stress.
• How do I prevent algae on my aquarium plants?
  Maintain a consistent 6–8 hour light schedule, avoid direct sunlight on the tank, keep nutrients balanced, and ensure good water circulation. Adding algae eaters like otocinclus, nerite snails, or amano shrimp also helps keep plants clean.
• Do you offer a live arrival guarantee on aquarium plants?
  Yes! All our live aquarium plants are covered by our live arrival guarantee. We ship fast across the US with careful packaging to ensure your plants arrive fresh, healthy, and ready to plant in your aquarium.