If you want to grow plants, I would suggest you get at least a basic enriched substrate. Replace that inert gravel with a regular bag of Flourite (not red/black). Not only does it have goodies for the plants in it but it also looks far more natural then painted pebbles. Your plants will love you for it.
Flourite does require a great deal of rinsing. If you use a metal strainer to rinse it (a cup at a time) you can collect all the tiny particles that fall through the strainer and graduate the substrate from larger chunks at the front to smaller ones towards the back. This helps greatly in giving your tank a better sense of depth.
Enjoy the hobby,
Shawn
Flourite does require a great deal of rinsing. If you use a metal strainer to rinse it (a cup at a time) you can collect all the tiny particles that fall through the strainer and graduate the substrate from larger chunks at the front to smaller ones towards the back. This helps greatly in giving your tank a better sense of depth.
Enjoy the hobby,
Shawn
