Comment by Peter on November 3, 2012 at 4:26pm

No but u need to buy liquid ferts. Like exel iron potassium trace elements and root tabs for ur plants to grow. Dirting a tank isn't necessary for a planted tank.

Comment by Derick cotten on November 3, 2012 at 6:31pm

i have sand and gravel . i use pferts root tabs and api leaf zone. im waiting on my dual t5ho to come in right now im using dual t8 for my 55 gal.

Comment by Robert Jango on November 4, 2012 at 1:21am

Fish poop will help fertilize your plants too. 

Comment by Adam Carbary on November 4, 2012 at 3:52pm

Peter is correct that adding liquid ferts and root tabs will help the overall growth of your plants. However, depending on the size of your tank and the height of it will determine if your 25 watt bulb will be sufficient enough for your plants. If your lighting isn't sufficient then adding ferts will potentially cause algae to grow faster then your plants. It is all about finding the balance for your tank. Typically your want to keep lighting around 2 watts per gallon to get good growth and not a ton of algae.

Good luck with your planted tank. Nothing is more rewarding than watching your planted tank boom.

Comment