A simple, 16-step procedure to get the healthy and algae-free planted aquarium you have always wanted:
1) Start with a basic aquarium setup recommended by your local fish store for all freshwater aquariums. Add inexpensive stem plants. Watch them die. Repeat. (Repeat. Repeat...)
2) The crypts at the store are cool. Ignore the fish store clerk's advice and buy some anyway. Watch them struggle but somehow survive. Repeat using anubias, moss and ferns. Smile. Buy more basic setups.
3) Meet Mr. Blue Green Algae and Mr. Black Brush Algae. Become close friends.
No step 4, sorry
5) Find iron fertilizer at the local fish store and experiment. Discover moderately better plant growth, but throw the empty bottle away when it runs out. Do not replace.
6) Meet Mr. Green Spot Algae, who seems very fond of your anubias.
7) Buy a book about aquarium plants. Find out that there are many different aquarium plants.
Revisit the local fish store and buy a variety of sword plants and stems. Put them in your tank and watch them die. Repeat as needed.
9) Revisit your book about aquarium plants. Find out that light is good. Try incandescent lights (cook fish), try fluorescent lights, try sunlight. Fluorescent lights and sunlight work. Sort of.
10) Meet Mr. Hair Algae. Mr. Beard Algae and Mr. Staghorn Algae are close behind.
11) Buy a new plant book. Study. Find articles. Study. Grok the way of the plant.
Now Grasshopper, many paths diverge. Whichever route you take, feel secure in the knowledge that you will be accompanied in your travels by your good friend, Mr. Green Water.
12) Discover one or more of; soil, comprehensive fertilizers, Oscars (forget plants).
No step 13, sorry
14) Add as needed one or more of; more patience, CO2, more light, sea salt (forget plants)
15) If needed, make your peace with macro-nutrient fertilizers.
16) Discover balance and stability.
17) Come to a better understanding of your goals and find security despite the departure of many friends who have long accompanied you; Mr. Blue Green Algae, Mr. Black Brush Algae and those who followed.
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Finally, develop a jaded attitude toward cookbook methods for keeping aquarium plants and toward the (usually helpful and well-intended) self-promoters who author them.
Happy Planting
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