Beginner Aquarium Plants for 30-Gal with 60W Light: Low-Tech Options

30-Gal Tank, 3×20W Bulbs, No CO2 — Easy Plants

60W over 30 gal = moderate light. Skip CO2 — go low-tech.

Bulletproof Plants (No CO2)

• Java fern, Anubias, Java moss (low light, attach to wood/rock).
• Cryptocoryne species (root feeders, use root tabs).
• Hornwort, Water sprite (floaters, fast nutrient uptake).
• Vallisneria, Sagittaria (runners, fill background).

CO2 Reality

DIY yeast CO2 is inconsistent. Pressurized systems cost $200+. For beginners, plant selection > CO2.

See Aquarium Plants.