How to Plant Aquarium Plants in a Fish Tank

Overview

Live aquarium plants enhance any tank size, adding interest and improving water quality by absorbing CO₂ and fish waste. After planting, provide 8–10 hours of light daily.

Step 1: Clean Tank and Gravel

Rinse tank 5× with lukewarm salt water (1 tbsp salt/gallon). Scrub with nylon sponge if needed. Rinse gravel in a shallow pan: pour water, swirl, pour off debris-laden water.

Step 2: Add Hardscape and Substrate

Place decorative rocks near back. Add 2 inches gravel, then 6–8 inches water.

Step 3: Arrange Plants by Height

Tall, dense plants (e.g., cabomba) in rear corners. Shorter plants (e.g., dwarf Cryptocoryne) in front and sides. Keep front clear for viewing.

Step 4: Plant Rooted Specimens

Dig holes for roots to point down and outward—not bent upward. Crown (where plant meets roots) should sit just above gravel, not buried.

Step 5: Plant Bunch Plants

Cut bottom inch of bunched stems (sold bundled with rubber band). Strip first inch of leaves. Unbundle and bury the stripped inch. Plant individually but close together in groups.