Would appreciate help for a "brand new" set up!

[laughing]

Hey everyone,

Previously I was just getting into fish and enjoyed betta fish as they were "easy" fish. I got up to 3 and found them to be a "comfortable" number for me. As I kept learning I realized I love plants more than the actual fish! I just moved so I had to downsize (previously 20G, (2) 10G, a 5G, etc...) and now only have a single tank that can fit. It's 10G that I divided for my 3 bettas. This has proven to absolutely not work to my love of aquascaping. I can't have any more tanks, so I've had to make some decisions. I'd much rather have a full 10G than a 10 split. I've decided to get rid of my bettas and completely re set up this tank.

Now that my focus is on my plants and aquascaping, I need to redo it all. I have a hang on filter that is noisy - not fitting for my "peaceful" idea - so going for a sponge filter. My substrate is is the "rock" substrate that is large nickel sized pebbles. Well, I've hated this from the get-go (didn't realize my hatred til a few weeks in) and would like some darker, finer gravel. Something easy to mix up and is darker to make the plants pop. I've also decided to add Co2 as this is plant based vs being for fish. I do have a very reliable heater that keeps the tank at 78*F.

So, for a planted aquarium, suggestions on substrate, sponge filters, and Co2, anyone? I'm really looking to make this a THRIVING tank for plants that grows well. I am completely open to any advice - I will not turn anyone down or reject good advice - so please if anyone has any insights to offer I'm more than glad to hear!! Will also take suggestions on lighting & ferts!

THANK YOU!

[pandamonium]

since you are doing plant-oriented, i would say you are right on, going with CO2. i know paintball setups are good for smaller tanks, like your 10 gallon. you might try that? for me i used DIY yeast CO2 and have the CO2 line running into a powerhead so chop up bubbles and mist my plants. my tank is low tech though, your is probably going to be a higher tech tank
for ferts, many people have recommended using dry ferts which are much cheaper than liquid ferts. i know green leaf aquarium sells it so you could check them out. its like plantex csm+b i think?
good luck on your tank!