[connorMV]

Hi everyone. So I have never had a planted tank before but just started one.

I have a 240L (4ft wide, 55cm deep) and I have planted aload of Java Moss, Amazon swords, Java fern and can't remember of the name of the last one (it's grass like) as I was hoping they will all work in a low tech set up.

Anyway was just looking for some advice. I have 2 T8 40w daylight tubes, is this enough? Also what are the best (or good) tubes to get?
I have put root tabs into the sand, do I also need liquid ferts?
And would it be worth getting some liquid carbon?

Any help would be much appreciated

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[dukydaf]

Hello and welcome to the hobby, looks like a good start.

Is the last plant called Vallisneria by any chance ?

The rhizome (long part from where the leaves come from) of the Jave ferns should be above the sand . You can attach it to wood or stone with thread.

Amazon swords ( Echinodorus amazonicus) will grow very large ( even for 240L). Move them towards the back.

Light is ok with the plant selection. Had a similar setup for some time.

There is nothing wrong with adding liquid fertilizing in your case, plants will enjoy it. Do you absolutely need it ? Likely not, but it will help.

I understand that liquid carbon does not play well with Vallisneria.

Enjoy your new aquarium.

 

[dpod]

It's hard to tell, but did you separate your Java fern into individual leaves? If you did, did you leave any of the rhizome (horizontal stem) attached?