[Mack]

In my opinion the first layout was the best, but keep on trying
Best regards, Mack.

 

[Roy Deki]

I'll admit the the other layout was more appealing to the eye but this one still needs to fill in.

 

[Norbert Sabat]

What is that foreground small grass plant? Some eleocharis species (Parvulus?)? How tall grown this plant?

 

[Roy Deki]

What is that foreground small grass plant? Some eleocharis species (Parvulus?)? How tall grown this plant?

Yes exactly...It doesn't grow any taller than what you see.

 

[tsunami]

I think your second layout is superior to your first, if you continue working on it and fine tuning it. You are creating an excellent focus around the "tree" of red lotus. Very nice. It shows a higher level of technique than the first.

The first one, although more visually appealing in the photograph, was rigidly triangular and seemed very contrived.

Keep us updated!

Carlos

 

[Roy Deki]

I think your second layout is superior to your first, if you continue working on it and fine tuning it. You are creating an excellent focus around the "tree" of red lotus. Very nice. It shows a higher level of technique than the first.

The first one, although more visually appealing in the photograph, was rigidly triangular and seemed very contrived.

Keep us updated!

Carlos

Carlos, Thank you for pointing that out, I thought this one is more difficult to do as well. I'm still not sure about the other two background plants. Still trying to figure out what should go there. Also i'm not happy with the Baby tears in the back right corner as well. I'm trying to create something that looks natural without alot of pruning or "shaping" of plants.

 

[Jdinh04]

Looks nice roy, at first I liked your first design better but then as I saw the progress of the second one they both look great! I love your rams, i've been wanting to get a pair for my 20 gallon but they are soo expensive here.

 

[Robert Hudson]

I disagree with Carlos. Your first design had form. Balance. The triangle design. Your current design doesn't have that sense of form to me. It is difficult to see where you are going with it. To me the Tiger Lotus seems out of place and too dominate and yet there are other parts to chaotic. The plants look great though. I certainly understand the desire to express those creative juices though!

 

[Roy Deki]

Robert thanks for you input and to some respect i agree. The two designs are very different and at this point i still like my first as well.

I'm trying to create a look that is pleasing to the eye with alot less pruning or shaping of plants.

I really am proud of my first attempt at a planted tank, but alot of it was done with clippers. I will admit that even trimming a plant or plants takes an eye and technique, but it's also a "manufactured" look.

The red tiger lotus might be the wrong plant to use as a focal point, but i want a focal plant that takes little pruning to form a natural look.

The tank has a long way to go, any and all input is very much appreciated.

 

[Roy Deki]

Here's an update: I'm hoping to find some long branchy driftwood to add to this layout. The water sprite will be removed from the center back of the tank. Someone gave it to me and i couldn't throw it out. What do you all think???