[Indignation]

I just planted a 20 gallon high tank. It's cycling, and won't have fish for a couple weeks. The water temp is currently holding at approx. 70 degrees F during the day, and dropping down to low 60s overnight. Should i bother to hook up a heater, or will the plants be fine in cooler water? If it does need to be heated, what temp is optimal for plant growth?

Thanks!

 

[BottomFeeder]

Depends on the plants since they have target ranges that they thrive in just like fish. Temp also has an impact on photosynthesis. I would just set it to your target temp.

 

[Indignation]

Thanks for the input BottomFeeder.

Plants are as follows:
Elatine Triandra
Fissidens Fontanus
Crypt Parva
HC
Rotala Wallichi
Rotala Mac. sp. Green
Rotala sp. mini
Anubias Nana/Barteri
Hygro Bold

I've grown most in tropical (76-82) range temps, but never tried the Crypt Parva, Elatine Triandra, and the Fissidens Fontanus. Any idea on the temp range of these?

 

[macclellan]

Don't worry about it. I've grown those three in those temps no prob. Just keep it under 80+.

 

[Postal Penguin]

I would put a heater in if only to speed the cycle up. Low 60s will probably slow down cycling significantly. I would put a heater in it and bump the temp up to mid 80s to accelerate the cycle. Then after the cycle is complete you can drop the temp back down.