Must-Have Equipment for a Thriving Planted Tank
Everything Aquariums.
Ready to Transform Your Tank? Discover the Essential Equipment for a Thriving Planted Aquarium!
A well-maintained planted aquarium adds beauty and tranquility to any space, with vibrant aquatic plants creating a stunning, natural environment. However, achieving this requires more than just water and plants – the right equipment is essential for ensuring your plants thrive.
From lighting to filtration and CO2 systems, the gear you choose plays a crucial role in the health of your tank.
At Everything Aquariums, we’re a small, passionate team dedicated to providing the best advice on proper aquatic care. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so your aquarium is not only beautiful but also a healthy, safe environment for your fish.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the must-have equipment for a thriving planted aquarium, helping you create and maintain a lush, vibrant underwater world with ease.
Aquarium Lighting
Ultum Nature Systems Titan 1 RGB LED Aquarium Light
Chihiros WRGB II Slim LED Aquarium Light
Aquarium Substrate
CO2 System
Filtration System
Liquid Fertilizer & Root Tabs
Aquarium Heater
Hygger Submersible Aquarium Heater
Aquarium Tools
Aquarium Lighting
Pro’s
Sleek and modern design enhances aquarium aesthetics.
Provides excellent light coverage for plant growth.
Durable and waterproof for long-lasting performance.
Cons
Higher price point compared to budget-friendly options.
Requires a separate hanging kit for installation.
Pro’s
Bluetooth connectivity allows for full control via a mobile app.
Customizable lighting settings, including sunrise and sunset effects.
Slim design minimizes visual clutter.
Aquarium Substrate
Cons
App-based control may be overwhelming for beginners.
Not as powerful as premium options for very demanding plants.
Pro’s
Rich in nutrients, promoting strong root growth and healthy plants.
Buffers water to a slightly acidic pH, ideal for planted tanks.
Comes in powder form for easier planting of small foreground plants.
Cons
Can cause initial ammonia spikes, requiring frequent water changes.
Slightly more expensive than basic substrates.
CO2 System
Pro’s
Essential for optimal plant growth and algae prevention.
Available in multiple sizes for different tank setups.
Compatible with most CO2 regulators.
Filtration System
Cons
Requires refilling, which can be inconvenient.
Setup and maintenance may be complex for beginners.
Pro’s
High flow rate and energy-efficient operation.
Includes Aquario Neo Flow lily pipes for improved water distribution.
Multiple filtration media layers ensure crystal-clear water.
Cons
Higher initial cost compared to basic filters.
Requires regular cleaning to maintain efficiency.
Liquid Fertilizer & Root Tabs
Pro’s
Provides essential nutrients for lush plant growth.
Safe for most freshwater fish and shrimp when used correctly.
Easy to dose and apply.
Cons
Overdosing can promote algae growth.
Less effective than root fertilizers for certain plant types.
Pro’s
Slowly releases nutrients directly to plant roots.
Ideal for use with inert substrates like sand or gravel.
Great for rejuvenating depleted substrates without restarting the tank.
Cons
Must be replaced every 2 months.
Not suitable for tanks already struggling with algae issues.
Aquarium Heater
Pro’s
Maintains stable water temperature, crucial for tropical plants and fish.
Features automatic shut-off to prevent overheating.
Compact design is easy to conceal.
Cons
Not needed for cold-water setups.
Only suitable for smaller tanks (up to 25 gallons).
Pro’s
High-quality stainless steel ensures durability and rust resistance.
Includes essential tools for planting, trimming, and maintaining aquascapes.
Precision design makes aquarium plant care easier.
Cons
Higher price compared to basic aquascaping tools.
Must be dried thoroughly after use to prevent rust.
Aquarium Tools
Pro’s
Makes water changes and substrate cleaning easy.
Available in different models for hands-free or manual operation.
Gentle siphon ensures minimal disturbance to aquascape and livestock.
Cons
Requires frequent use for best results.
Some models may not fit well in very small tanks.
Pro’s
Dual brush heads accommodate different filter pipe sizes.
Helps prevent clogs and improves filtration efficiency.
Keeps lily pipes and tubing looking clean and clear.
Cons
Requires manual effort for thorough cleaning.
May be too large for very narrow filter pipes.
1. Aquarium Lighting
Best Overall: Ultum Nature Systems Titan 1 RGB LED Aquarium Light
The Ultum Nature Systems Titan 1 RGB LED Aquarium Light is the pinnacle of aquarium lighting. Combining sleek design with high-performance illumination, it’s the ideal choice for those looking to showcase vibrant plant colors while maintaining a modern aesthetic.
Key Features:
Beautiful Aesthetic: Minimalist design enhances the overall appeal of your aquarium.
Lightweight Construction: Designed for durability without adding bulk.
Waterproof and Durable: Reinforced, waterproof wire ensures longevity.
Wide Compatibility: Easily mounts with most hanging kits for hassle-free installation.
Why We Love It:
The Titan 1 provides outstanding light coverage, making it perfect for lush plant growth while complementing the aesthetics of a well-designed aquascape.
Best Budget Option: Chihiros WRGB II Slim LED Aquarium Light
For aquascapers looking for an affordable yet high-quality lighting solution, the Chihiros WRGB II Slim LED Aquarium Light is an excellent option. Offering a full RGB spectrum, this light enhances the natural colors of your aquatic plants and fish, all while allowing full control via a smartphone app.
Key Features:
Wireless Control: Adjust brightness and color settings through the MyChihiros app.
Slim Profile: Less than an inch thick, seamlessly integrates into any aquarium setup.
Customizable Settings: Includes sunrise and sunset effects for a natural light cycle.
Included Light Shade: Reduces reflections for a more immersive viewing experience.
Why We Love It:
The Chihiros WRGB II Slim series is an excellent choice for hobbyists who want flexible lighting options with modern tech integration.
2. Aquarium Substrate
A high-quality substrate is the foundation of a thriving planted tank. Tropica Aquarium Soil is rich in essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for demanding plants like Rotala, Ludwigia, and Echinodorus.
Key Features:
Provides vital nutrients for plant growth.
Enhances root development, ideal for foreground plants like Monte Carlo and Cuba.
Buffers water to a slightly acidic pH for better nutrient absorption.
Granule size allows for easy planting.
Why We Love It:
Tropica Aquarium Soil simplifies tank setup and ensures plants receive the nutrients they need for vibrant growth without the need for additional additives.
3. CO2 System
Available in 2.5LB, 5LB, 10LB, and 20LB sizes
CO2 injection is crucial for plant health, especially in high-tech aquariums. The UNS CO2 Pro Cylinder is a reliable and efficient way to introduce CO2 into your tank, ensuring optimal plant growth while preventing algae overgrowth.
Key Features:
Various size options to suit different tank setups.
Compatible with UNS CO2 Pro Regulator for easy control.
Enhances plant photosynthesis and growth rate.
Allows plants to outcompete algae for nutrients.
Why We Love It:
A properly regulated CO2 system is the secret to lush, healthy plants and an algae-free tank.
4. Filtration System
UNS Delta Canister Filter (30, 60, 90, 120)
Good filtration is essential to maintaining a clean, balanced aquarium. The UNS Delta Canister Filter provides excellent water flow, ensuring your aquatic plants and livestock stay healthy.
Key Features:
High flow rates for superior water clarity.
Quiet operation, energy-efficient design.
Includes Aquario Neo Flow Lily Pipes for improved aesthetics and functionality.
Various attachments available for customization.
Why We Love It:
The Delta filter is designed for efficiency, reliability, and versatility—perfect for both nano and larger planted tanks.
5. Liquid Fertilizer & Root Tabs
UNS Plant Food MAX & Aquario Neo Plants Tabs
To keep plants lush and vibrant, they need regular nutrient supplementation.
A liquid fertilizer that provides essential macro and micronutrients.
Ideal for heavily planted tanks with nutrient-demanding plants.
Slow-release root tabs, perfect for plants that rely on root feeding.
Works with all substrate types.
Helps prevent nutrient deficiencies without disrupting the aquascape.
Why We Love It:
A combination of liquid fertilizers and root tabs ensures all plants receive the necessary nutrients for optimal growth.
6. Aquarium Heater
Hygger Submersible Aquarium Heater
Maintaining a stable water temperature is crucial for both tropical fish and plants.
Key Features:
Accurate temperature control with a 1°F variable range.
Automatic shutoff when desired temperature is reached.
Ideal for tanks up to 25 gallons.
Why We Love It:
Essential for tropical species and preventing temperature fluctuations that can stress plants and fish.
7. Aquarium Tools
UNS Stainless Steel Essential Aquascaping Tool Set
The right tools make planted tank maintenance easy and enjoyable.
Includes:
Straight Pinsettes: For precise planting.
Straight Scissors: Perfect for trimming plants.
Sand Flattener: Ensures a neat, professional-looking substrate.
Available in multiple models for hands-free water changes.
Prevents debris buildup without disturbing plants.
Dual-brush design for cleaning aquarium tubing and filter pipes.
Helps maintain a healthy, algae-free environment.
Why We Love It:
High-quality tools make aquascaping easier, helping maintain a stunning planted aquarium with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
A successful planted tank relies on quality equipment, proper care, and a little patience. With the right lighting, filtration, CO2 system, substrate, and tools, your aquarium will thrive, providing a lush, natural ecosystem for plants and fish alike. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aquascaper, investing in the right gear will make all the difference!
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