[sleepytime]

Hi everyone,

I'm new! And I'm collecting research for a planted tank I'd like to set up in the future:

My desire is to purchase a Fluval Edge 6 gallon tank and upgrade the lights to two of the MR11 LED lights.

But, what I am uncertain of is what plant types will work best under these conditions:

These are the specs for the MR11 bulbs. Truthfully, I don't know enough to make a solid judgment call regarding if this is or isn't enough light to say....grow a carpet of baby tears. What do you think?

• Bulb Type :MR11 10 White LED G4 Base
• Life time:30,000 Hours / Operating Voltage:12 V AC DC (125 mA)
• Color:White (6000K)
• View Angle:140 Deg/Consumption:2.1 Watt
• Light output:160 Lumen

Even with the new MR11 lights illuminating the 6 gallon tank, am I still in "low-light" land? Should I just stick to java fern and anubias for my planted tank? I plan on heavily stocking it plants so that it has a very lush aesthetic, so I want to make sure I am investing in the correct plants.

If anyone currently has this tank/light set-up, I'd love to hear what plants have or haven't worked for you.

Additionally, I wasn't planning on rigging in a CO2 system, just maybe using some Excel to keep the plants healthy -- so if you also know of pretty hardy plants that will thrive without a CO2 system and under the MR11 lights -- drop some knowledge on me!!

Would love to read any advice or see any pics.

Thanks!

PS. I've done a massive amount research into the pros and cons of the Fluval Edge tank system, so I know what I'm getting into in terms of the constraints around purchasing this tank. Which is why I'd love any practical advice from anyone who's loved a Fluval and wants to pass on plant secrets. Cuz, basically, I love the design too much and I am determined to make this dream happen.

 

[WingoAgency]

If you have purchased your LED already, I have a PAR meter and Edge tank to test the value for you.

I am in NYC too, Flushing.

One PRACTICAL advise would be to make sure you have a bubbler or enough aeration when you fill the water to the top glass.

 

[BlueJack]

That was my first upgrade to my fluval edge. I was able to grow (more like keep alive) anubias, anacharis, and hygro compact without CO2. They were planted in the center of the tank directly below the lights. I would be interested in seeing what PAR those throw down if you end up testing them.

It took a few more upgrades before I could actually GROW any plant I wanted.

 

[CGY_Betta_Guy]

That was also my first upgrade to my Edge. Any lower light plant has worked and grown for me. Anubias, java fern, crypts, swords, pennywort, vals, mosses, anacharis. Here is a pic of the sword I just recently pulled from my tank. Pretty extensive root system and some minor deficiency is evident but that is to be expected since I never gave it root tabs. I have left crypts grow even bigger than this sword and they shaded almost the entire footprint of the tank.

 

[sleepytime]

Thanks so much everyone for the info! I'll check back in I'm sure once I start getting the set-up assembled.

Have a good one xo