Art I don't think there is anything I enjoy more than creating a planted aquarium from the minute I shop for the tank to the first water change! The first thing I do is to buy all the dry goods ahead of time. From substrate to cable ties I most have and count everything just so I can focus on the design. After knowing the hardscape materials I am about to use a decision is made for the plant selection, must of us know how difficult is to get what you need at the right time and in the quantity needed, Therefore is a good idea to always have reliable plant sources either from club members or from any of our sponsors.
Once I have the plants ready I like to sort them in trays so they can be ready when needed and time will not be waist at the planting time.
When all the details are taking care of the substrate is prepared and then the layout is created taking as much time as needed. I some time don't feel OK with the "final" layout and go to bed and try again next day.
for this reason weekend's are best for aquascaping!
Finally the planting begins and filters are turned on as well as the other equipment, skim the surface for remaining debris and sit back and enjoy!
Luis Navarro |