Tetra-12244-TETTO5/1Planting-sj

2/4/03

10:44 AM

Page 2

Any broken or damaged parts of the plant should be cut off,

replaced with 20cm (8in) cuttings taken from the top of the

as should any brown and limp roots or dying leaves. Healthy

plant.When re-planting these cuttings, remove the lower few

roots should also be cut back by about a half, in order to

leaves so as they do not become covered and decay.

stimulate new growth.A hole should be made in the gravel

Rosette plants do not have obvious stems and tend to

Key Words
Oxygen

pH
element that is essential to fish,

used by plants in photosynthesis

and the plant inserted, then this should be back-filled to

exhibit quite dense growth.They should have any dying

cover it and hold it in place.The plant should be gently pulled

leaves removed and be thinned out from time to time.

and produced by plants and

up until its growing tip, or crown, is just visible.

This can be done by cutting away the largest outer leaves,

animals during respiration.Toxic to

and if necessary cutting the roots back to around 15cm (6in).

fish at high levels.

This will halt growth for a period of time but eventually new

plants preferring a level of 6.5 8.0

Carbonate hardness a measure of the amount of
carbonate and bicarbonate salts in
the water.These determine the
buffering capacity of the water, i.e.

non-toxic form of ammonia

how well it can resist changes in

roots will develop.

produced by fish and conversion

pH.

In addition to tidying up the plants, a fertiliser such as

from ammonia.

TetraPlant FloraPride should be added on a regular basis.

Ammonium

Nitrate

Phosphate

Laterite

biological filtration. Used by plants

into nitrite and then into nitrate.

Algae

essential constituent of fish food

green water and unsightly

brown/green growths on the tank

also encourages algae.

glass.

iron rich substrate sometimes

Shopping List

plants with extra fertilisation.

TetraPlant FloraPride / Tetra EasyBalance

referring to the range of light

Well Washed Pea Gravel

wavelengths produced by a light

Lighting System

Light Reflector

from the blue and red parts of the

Caring For Your Plants

spectrum.Therefore bulbs for

Occasionally you will have to tidy up your plants and give

plant growth should produce more

them a feed.The frequency of this will depend on the type

light from these areas of the

and number of plants that you have.Stem plants, so-called

spectrum.

between the leaves, can sometimes grow to the surface of

the tank and prevent light from reaching plants that are
lower down. If this happens, they need to be cut back. Species
that branch heavily will re-grow to their former glory after
being cut back, but those that only exhibit sparse branching
will not.The latter should be removed completely, and

Photosynthesis

primitive form of plants that cause

that is important for plants but

source. Plants primarily use light

because they have very obvious stems that can be seen

process by which beneficial filter

bacteria convert toxic ammonia

mixed in with gravel to provide

Spectrum

Biological filtration

produced from nitrite during

but also encourages algae growth.

process by which light energy is

harnessed for the production of
food from carbon dioxide and
water.

Tropical fish

from 0 14, with most fish and

plants and other animals.

Carbon dioxide

measure of how acid or alkaline

the water is.The pH scale ranges

Planting Your Tank

Tetra-12244-TETTO5/1Planting-sj

2/4/03

10:44 AM

Page 1

Why Have Plants?

planting substrates such as laterite can be included in the

determining carbon dioxide levels in your aquarium.These

elements are not present in sufficient quantities, for example

Apart from their aesthetic appeal, plants serve a

gravel, in order to provide the plants with a constant source

levels should be measured during the day when the plants are

manganese, copper, zinc, molybdenum etc.

number of useful functions in the aquarium.

of iron and other trace elements.

using up carbon dioxide, as at night they stop

It is therefore essential to use a quality plant fertiliser that

They provide shelter and natural hiding places for

All plants require light as a source of energy and so it is

photosynthesising and therefore do not require it. If

will supply the plants with everything that they need, without

the fish.

important to provide them with sufficient amounts. Most

necessary, it is possible to add additional carbon dioxide to

encouraging the growth of algae. TetraPlant FloraPride

people start with standard fluorescent tubes, which in most

the water in order to improve plant growth.

contains all of the elements essential for healthy plant growth

They produce oxygen and use up carbon dioxide.

They help to remove ammonium from the tank.

Plants require light from the blue and red areas of the

They help to remove nitrate and phosphate, which

spectrum and so it is important to select a bulb that is

Plants require a variety of other essential nutrients in order

prolonged and healthy growth, and it encourages the

would otherwise build up and encourage algal growth.

specifically designed for encouraging plant growth.As a

to thrive and grow well. Ammonium and nitrate are

production of rich and colourful leaves. It should be added

They create a surface upon which beneficial micro-

general rule of thumb, for most standard tanks each litre of

natural products of fish excretion and biological filtration,

after every partial water change or, alternatively,

organisms can attach.

water requires 0.5W of power. For example, a 60 litre

and are both utilised by plants. Ammonium tends to be

at monthly intervals.

Some species produce substances that help to reduce

aquarium would require a 30W fluorescent tube. Installing a

scarce in mature tanks as it is rapidly broken down into

numbers of harmful bacteria in the tank.

light reflector into the lid of the tank can greatly increase the

nitrate. Nitrate is the end product of biological filtration

amount of light hitting the water.

and is therefore present in quite high quantities in tanks that

The root systems of aquatic plants release small

instances are sufficient to encourage good plant growth.

amounts of oxygen, thereby helping to avoid stagnation

Light tubes should be replaced approximately every 6

of the substrate.

months, as over time their efficiency drops.

There is a huge range of plants available for the tropical and

coldwater aquarium, some of which are very easy to care for
and others that take more work.

Preparing Your Tank For Plants

There are one or two things that you can do to make sure
that your tank is suitable for encouraging healthy plant
growth.The substrate should be slightly deeper than in a
non-planted tank, in order to accommodate the root systems
and any planting media.An ideal depth would be 5 7 cm
(2 3 inches) of well-washed gravel.Avoid using very fine
gravel or sand, as it
tends to compact
and create stagnant
areas, reducing
water circulation
around plant roots.
Slow release
fertilisers or special

Nitrates and Phosphates

are well stocked with fish. However, it also encourages the

growth of unsightly algae and therefore it ideally needs to
be presented in a form that makes it

What Do Plants Need?

In order to thrive, plants require a number of different
elements to be available. Just like fish and other animals, they
require oxygen in order to respire and release energy.A
healthy tank with healthy fish should have sufficient oxygen
for good plant growth. However, vigorous aeration is not
necessarily a good thing in planted tanks as it drives off
carbon dioxide, which plants also need.Therefore, wellplanted tanks should not be over-stocked with fish, as
otherwise additional aeration will be required.

accessible to plants but that does not

promote algal growth. Phosphate is
also very important for plant
growth and photosynthesis,
although again it is important that it
is in a form that does not
encourage algae. TetraPlant
FloraPride is a liquid plant food

Plants need carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. In most

tanks, there will be sufficient carbon dioxide for moderate
plant growth, however, for the serious plant grower this
becomes a critical water quality parameter.The amount of
carbon dioxide in the water is influenced by temperature,
pH and carbonate hardness. The Tetratest Laborett
test kit contains the necessary test kits and charts for

and efficiently absorbed through roots and leaves for

Tetra Speciality & Treat Foods
The widest range of speciality foods to suit
you aquariums individual needs and a range
of treat foods that your fish will love.

Alternatively, if you use Tetra EasyBalance then this

supplies all of the plants needs, encouraging good growth.

Planting
Once you have obtained all of the necessary equipment and

Tetra Water Care

There is no easier way to keep your
aquarium water in peak condition than with
Tetra's water care range of products.

prepared the tank you can then set about buying your plants.

Tetratec Equipment

It is important that you select plants that will not out-grow

There's a whole range of air pumps,

filter and heaters to help maintain ideal
aquarium conditions for your tropical fish.

your tank and that will be happy in your water conditions.

Often, they will be labelled with their potential size and
temperature requirements.Traditionally, tall plants are used
to create a backdrop to the tank whilst smaller ones are
positioned in the foreground.You may wish to stick to
this format or, alternatively, come up with your own
planting arrangement.

Tetra Test Kits

Ideal water conditions are simple
to monitor using the
TetraTest range of test kits.

that provides all the essential

nutrients, without encouraging the
growth of algae.

Carbon Dioxide

and it will not encourage the growth of algae. It is quickly

TetraMin & TetraMin Pro

Nutritionally balanced tropical fish food in
flake or crisp format, that are fully digestible
for less waste and clearer aquarium water.

New plants are usually transported in plastic carrier bags,

which is fine provided that they do not dry out. If you have
bought plants that are already in small baskets then these

Micronutrients
There are a number of other elements that are important for
plants, without which they will display poor growth and
appearance. Iron is important for the synthesis of chlorophyll,
the pigment that plants use to trap the energy in light.A
deficiency of iron and other trace elements leads to a
condition called chlorosis, causing leaves to turn yellow and
brittle. Signs of deficiency will also occur if a number of other

should be removed and the rock wool around the roots

washed off. If necessary, you should cut the basket away in
order to avoid damaging the roots.They are best washed in
a bowl of water taken from your tank and at the same time
they need to be checked for snail eggs.These look like small
masses of jelly and need to be removed, as snails will eat
some species of plant and add an extra biological load to

For further information visit our website, write or email:

Tetra Information Centre, PO Box 373, Eastleigh SO53 3UX
Email: tetrauk@tetra.net

www.tetra-fish.co.uk

the tank.
TR003

Tetra-12244-TETTO5/1Planting-sj

2/4/03

10:44 AM

Page 1

Why Have Plants?

planting substrates such as laterite can be included in the

determining carbon dioxide levels in your aquarium.These

elements are not present in sufficient quantities, for example

Apart from their aesthetic appeal, plants serve a

gravel, in order to provide the plants with a constant source

levels should be measured during the day when the plants are

manganese, copper, zinc, molybdenum etc.

number of useful functions in the aquarium.

of iron and other trace elements.

using up carbon dioxide, as at night they stop

It is therefore essential to use a quality plant fertiliser that

They provide shelter and natural hiding places for

All plants require light as a source of energy and so it is

photosynthesising and therefore do not require it. If

will supply the plants with everything that they need, without

the fish.

important to provide them with sufficient amounts. Most

necessary, it is possible to add additional carbon dioxide to

encouraging the growth of algae. TetraPlant FloraPride

people start with standard fluorescent tubes, which in most

the water in order to improve plant growth.

contains all of the elements essential for healthy plant growth

They produce oxygen and use up carbon dioxide.

They help to remove ammonium from the tank.

Plants require light from the blue and red areas of the

They help to remove nitrate and phosphate, which

spectrum and so it is important to select a bulb that is

Plants require a variety of other essential nutrients in order

prolonged and healthy growth, and it encourages the

would otherwise build up and encourage algal growth.

specifically designed for encouraging plant growth.As a

to thrive and grow well. Ammonium and nitrate are

production of rich and colourful leaves. It should be added

They create a surface upon which beneficial micro-

general rule of thumb, for most standard tanks each litre of

natural products of fish excretion and biological filtration,

after every partial water change or, alternatively,

organisms can attach.

water requires 0.5W of power. For example, a 60 litre

and are both utilised by plants. Ammonium tends to be

at monthly intervals.

Some species produce substances that help to reduce

aquarium would require a 30W fluorescent tube. Installing a

scarce in mature tanks as it is rapidly broken down into

numbers of harmful bacteria in the tank.

light reflector into the lid of the tank can greatly increase the

nitrate. Nitrate is the end product of biological filtration

amount of light hitting the water.

and is therefore present in quite high quantities in tanks that

The root systems of aquatic plants release small

instances are sufficient to encourage good plant growth.

amounts of oxygen, thereby helping to avoid stagnation

Light tubes should be replaced approximately every 6

of the substrate.

months, as over time their efficiency drops.

There is a huge range of plants available for the tropical and

coldwater aquarium, some of which are very easy to care for
and others that take more work.

Preparing Your Tank For Plants

There are one or two things that you can do to make sure
that your tank is suitable for encouraging healthy plant
growth.The substrate should be slightly deeper than in a
non-planted tank, in order to accommodate the root systems
and any planting media.An ideal depth would be 5 7 cm
(2 3 inches) of well-washed gravel.Avoid using very fine
gravel or sand, as it
tends to compact
and create stagnant
areas, reducing
water circulation
around plant roots.
Slow release
fertilisers or special

Nitrates and Phosphates

are well stocked with fish. However, it also encourages the

growth of unsightly algae and therefore it ideally needs to
be presented in a form that makes it

What Do Plants Need?

In order to thrive, plants require a number of different
elements to be available. Just like fish and other animals, they
require oxygen in order to respire and release energy.A
healthy tank with healthy fish should have sufficient oxygen
for good plant growth. However, vigorous aeration is not
necessarily a good thing in planted tanks as it drives off
carbon dioxide, which plants also need.Therefore, wellplanted tanks should not be over-stocked with fish, as
otherwise additional aeration will be required.

accessible to plants but that does not

promote algal growth. Phosphate is
also very important for plant
growth and photosynthesis,
although again it is important that it
is in a form that does not
encourage algae. TetraPlant
FloraPride is a liquid plant food

Plants need carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. In most

tanks, there will be sufficient carbon dioxide for moderate
plant growth, however, for the serious plant grower this
becomes a critical water quality parameter.The amount of
carbon dioxide in the water is influenced by temperature,
pH and carbonate hardness. The Tetratest Laborett
test kit contains the necessary test kits and charts for

and efficiently absorbed through roots and leaves for

Tetra Speciality & Treat Foods
The widest range of speciality foods to suit
you aquariums individual needs and a range
of treat foods that your fish will love.

Alternatively, if you use Tetra EasyBalance then this

supplies all of the plants needs, encouraging good growth.

Planting
Once you have obtained all of the necessary equipment and

Tetra Water Care

There is no easier way to keep your
aquarium water in peak condition than with
Tetra's water care range of products.

prepared the tank you can then set about buying your plants.

Tetratec Equipment

It is important that you select plants that will not out-grow

There's a whole range of air pumps,

filter and heaters to help maintain ideal
aquarium conditions for your tropical fish.

your tank and that will be happy in your water conditions.

Often, they will be labelled with their potential size and
temperature requirements.Traditionally, tall plants are used
to create a backdrop to the tank whilst smaller ones are
positioned in the foreground.You may wish to stick to
this format or, alternatively, come up with your own
planting arrangement.

Tetra Test Kits

Ideal water conditions are simple
to monitor using the
TetraTest range of test kits.

that provides all the essential

nutrients, without encouraging the
growth of algae.

Carbon Dioxide

and it will not encourage the growth of algae. It is quickly

TetraMin & TetraMin Pro

Nutritionally balanced tropical fish food in
flake or crisp format, that are fully digestible
for less waste and clearer aquarium water.

New plants are usually transported in plastic carrier bags,

which is fine provided that they do not dry out. If you have
bought plants that are already in small baskets then these

Micronutrients
There are a number of other elements that are important for
plants, without which they will display poor growth and
appearance. Iron is important for the synthesis of chlorophyll,
the pigment that plants use to trap the energy in light.A
deficiency of iron and other trace elements leads to a
condition called chlorosis, causing leaves to turn yellow and
brittle. Signs of deficiency will also occur if a number of other

should be removed and the rock wool around the roots

washed off. If necessary, you should cut the basket away in
order to avoid damaging the roots.They are best washed in
a bowl of water taken from your tank and at the same time
they need to be checked for snail eggs.These look like small
masses of jelly and need to be removed, as snails will eat
some species of plant and add an extra biological load to

For further information visit our website, write or email:

Tetra Information Centre, PO Box 373, Eastleigh SO53 3UX
Email: tetrauk@tetra.net

www.tetra-fish.co.uk

the tank.
TR003

Tetra-12244-TETTO5/1Planting-sj

2/4/03

10:44 AM

Page 1

Why Have Plants?

planting substrates such as laterite can be included in the

determining carbon dioxide levels in your aquarium.These

elements are not present in sufficient quantities, for example

Apart from their aesthetic appeal, plants serve a

gravel, in order to provide the plants with a constant source

levels should be measured during the day when the plants are

manganese, copper, zinc, molybdenum etc.

number of useful functions in the aquarium.

of iron and other trace elements.

using up carbon dioxide, as at night they stop

It is therefore essential to use a quality plant fertiliser that

They provide shelter and natural hiding places for

All plants require light as a source of energy and so it is

photosynthesising and therefore do not require it. If

will supply the plants with everything that they need, without

the fish.

important to provide them with sufficient amounts. Most

necessary, it is possible to add additional carbon dioxide to

encouraging the growth of algae. TetraPlant FloraPride

people start with standard fluorescent tubes, which in most

the water in order to improve plant growth.

contains all of the elements essential for healthy plant growth

They produce oxygen and use up carbon dioxide.

They help to remove ammonium from the tank.

Plants require light from the blue and red areas of the

They help to remove nitrate and phosphate, which

spectrum and so it is important to select a bulb that is

Plants require a variety of other essential nutrients in order

prolonged and healthy growth, and it encourages the

would otherwise build up and encourage algal growth.

specifically designed for encouraging plant growth.As a

to thrive and grow well. Ammonium and nitrate are

production of rich and colourful leaves. It should be added

They create a surface upon which beneficial micro-

general rule of thumb, for most standard tanks each litre of

natural products of fish excretion and biological filtration,

after every partial water change or, alternatively,

organisms can attach.

water requires 0.5W of power. For example, a 60 litre

and are both utilised by plants. Ammonium tends to be

at monthly intervals.

Some species produce substances that help to reduce

aquarium would require a 30W fluorescent tube. Installing a

scarce in mature tanks as it is rapidly broken down into

numbers of harmful bacteria in the tank.

light reflector into the lid of the tank can greatly increase the

nitrate. Nitrate is the end product of biological filtration

amount of light hitting the water.

and is therefore present in quite high quantities in tanks that

The root systems of aquatic plants release small

instances are sufficient to encourage good plant growth.

amounts of oxygen, thereby helping to avoid stagnation

Light tubes should be replaced approximately every 6

of the substrate.

months, as over time their efficiency drops.

There is a huge range of plants available for the tropical and

coldwater aquarium, some of which are very easy to care for
and others that take more work.

Preparing Your Tank For Plants

There are one or two things that you can do to make sure
that your tank is suitable for encouraging healthy plant
growth.The substrate should be slightly deeper than in a
non-planted tank, in order to accommodate the root systems
and any planting media.An ideal depth would be 5 7 cm
(2 3 inches) of well-washed gravel.Avoid using very fine
gravel or sand, as it
tends to compact
and create stagnant
areas, reducing
water circulation
around plant roots.
Slow release
fertilisers or special

Nitrates and Phosphates

are well stocked with fish. However, it also encourages the

growth of unsightly algae and therefore it ideally needs to
be presented in a form that makes it

What Do Plants Need?

In order to thrive, plants require a number of different
elements to be available. Just like fish and other animals, they
require oxygen in order to respire and release energy.A
healthy tank with healthy fish should have sufficient oxygen
for good plant growth. However, vigorous aeration is not
necessarily a good thing in planted tanks as it drives off
carbon dioxide, which plants also need.Therefore, wellplanted tanks should not be over-stocked with fish, as
otherwise additional aeration will be required.

accessible to plants but that does not

promote algal growth. Phosphate is
also very important for plant
growth and photosynthesis,
although again it is important that it
is in a form that does not
encourage algae. TetraPlant
FloraPride is a liquid plant food

Plants need carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. In most

tanks, there will be sufficient carbon dioxide for moderate
plant growth, however, for the serious plant grower this
becomes a critical water quality parameter.The amount of
carbon dioxide in the water is influenced by temperature,
pH and carbonate hardness. The Tetratest Laborett
test kit contains the necessary test kits and charts for

and efficiently absorbed through roots and leaves for

Tetra Speciality & Treat Foods
The widest range of speciality foods to suit
you aquariums individual needs and a range
of treat foods that your fish will love.

Alternatively, if you use Tetra EasyBalance then this

supplies all of the plants needs, encouraging good growth.

Planting
Once you have obtained all of the necessary equipment and

Tetra Water Care

There is no easier way to keep your
aquarium water in peak condition than with
Tetra's water care range of products.

prepared the tank you can then set about buying your plants.

Tetratec Equipment

It is important that you select plants that will not out-grow

There's a whole range of air pumps,

filter and heaters to help maintain ideal
aquarium conditions for your tropical fish.

your tank and that will be happy in your water conditions.

Often, they will be labelled with their potential size and
temperature requirements.Traditionally, tall plants are used
to create a backdrop to the tank whilst smaller ones are
positioned in the foreground.You may wish to stick to
this format or, alternatively, come up with your own
planting arrangement.

Tetra Test Kits

Ideal water conditions are simple
to monitor using the
TetraTest range of test kits.

that provides all the essential

nutrients, without encouraging the
growth of algae.

Carbon Dioxide

and it will not encourage the growth of algae. It is quickly

TetraMin & TetraMin Pro

Nutritionally balanced tropical fish food in
flake or crisp format, that are fully digestible
for less waste and clearer aquarium water.

New plants are usually transported in plastic carrier bags,

which is fine provided that they do not dry out. If you have
bought plants that are already in small baskets then these

Micronutrients
There are a number of other elements that are important for
plants, without which they will display poor growth and
appearance. Iron is important for the synthesis of chlorophyll,
the pigment that plants use to trap the energy in light.A
deficiency of iron and other trace elements leads to a
condition called chlorosis, causing leaves to turn yellow and
brittle. Signs of deficiency will also occur if a number of other

should be removed and the rock wool around the roots

washed off. If necessary, you should cut the basket away in
order to avoid damaging the roots.They are best washed in
a bowl of water taken from your tank and at the same time
they need to be checked for snail eggs.These look like small
masses of jelly and need to be removed, as snails will eat
some species of plant and add an extra biological load to

For further information visit our website, write or email:

Tetra Information Centre, PO Box 373, Eastleigh SO53 3UX
Email: tetrauk@tetra.net

www.tetra-fish.co.uk

the tank.
TR003

Tetra-12244-TETTO5/1Planting-sj

2/4/03

10:44 AM

Page 1

Why Have Plants?

planting substrates such as laterite can be included in the

determining carbon dioxide levels in your aquarium.These

elements are not present in sufficient quantities, for example

Apart from their aesthetic appeal, plants serve a

gravel, in order to provide the plants with a constant source

levels should be measured during the day when the plants are

manganese, copper, zinc, molybdenum etc.

number of useful functions in the aquarium.

of iron and other trace elements.

using up carbon dioxide, as at night they stop

It is therefore essential to use a quality plant fertiliser that

They provide shelter and natural hiding places for

All plants require light as a source of energy and so it is

photosynthesising and therefore do not require it. If

will supply the plants with everything that they need, without

the fish.

important to provide them with sufficient amounts. Most

necessary, it is possible to add additional carbon dioxide to

encouraging the growth of algae. TetraPlant FloraPride

people start with standard fluorescent tubes, which in most

the water in order to improve plant growth.

contains all of the elements essential for healthy plant growth

They produce oxygen and use up carbon dioxide.

They help to remove ammonium from the tank.

Plants require light from the blue and red areas of the

They help to remove nitrate and phosphate, which

spectrum and so it is important to select a bulb that is

Plants require a variety of other essential nutrients in order

prolonged and healthy growth, and it encourages the

would otherwise build up and encourage algal growth.

specifically designed for encouraging plant growth.As a

to thrive and grow well. Ammonium and nitrate are

production of rich and colourful leaves. It should be added

They create a surface upon which beneficial micro-

general rule of thumb, for most standard tanks each litre of

natural products of fish excretion and biological filtration,

after every partial water change or, alternatively,

organisms can attach.

water requires 0.5W of power. For example, a 60 litre

and are both utilised by plants. Ammonium tends to be

at monthly intervals.

Some species produce substances that help to reduce

aquarium would require a 30W fluorescent tube. Installing a

scarce in mature tanks as it is rapidly broken down into

numbers of harmful bacteria in the tank.

light reflector into the lid of the tank can greatly increase the

nitrate. Nitrate is the end product of biological filtration

amount of light hitting the water.

and is therefore present in quite high quantities in tanks that

The root systems of aquatic plants release small

instances are sufficient to encourage good plant growth.

amounts of oxygen, thereby helping to avoid stagnation

Light tubes should be replaced approximately every 6

of the substrate.

months, as over time their efficiency drops.

There is a huge range of plants available for the tropical and

coldwater aquarium, some of which are very easy to care for
and others that take more work.

Preparing Your Tank For Plants

There are one or two things that you can do to make sure
that your tank is suitable for encouraging healthy plant
growth.The substrate should be slightly deeper than in a
non-planted tank, in order to accommodate the root systems
and any planting media.An ideal depth would be 5 7 cm
(2 3 inches) of well-washed gravel.Avoid using very fine
gravel or sand, as it
tends to compact
and create stagnant
areas, reducing
water circulation
around plant roots.
Slow release
fertilisers or special

Nitrates and Phosphates

are well stocked with fish. However, it also encourages the

growth of unsightly algae and therefore it ideally needs to
be presented in a form that makes it

What Do Plants Need?

In order to thrive, plants require a number of different
elements to be available. Just like fish and other animals, they
require oxygen in order to respire and release energy.A
healthy tank with healthy fish should have sufficient oxygen
for good plant growth. However, vigorous aeration is not
necessarily a good thing in planted tanks as it drives off
carbon dioxide, which plants also need.Therefore, wellplanted tanks should not be over-stocked with fish, as
otherwise additional aeration will be required.

accessible to plants but that does not

promote algal growth. Phosphate is
also very important for plant
growth and photosynthesis,
although again it is important that it
is in a form that does not
encourage algae. TetraPlant
FloraPride is a liquid plant food

Plants need carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. In most

tanks, there will be sufficient carbon dioxide for moderate
plant growth, however, for the serious plant grower this
becomes a critical water quality parameter.The amount of
carbon dioxide in the water is influenced by temperature,
pH and carbonate hardness. The Tetratest Laborett
test kit contains the necessary test kits and charts for

and efficiently absorbed through roots and leaves for

Tetra Speciality & Treat Foods
The widest range of speciality foods to suit
you aquariums individual needs and a range
of treat foods that your fish will love.

Alternatively, if you use Tetra EasyBalance then this

supplies all of the plants needs, encouraging good growth.

Planting
Once you have obtained all of the necessary equipment and

Tetra Water Care

There is no easier way to keep your
aquarium water in peak condition than with
Tetra's water care range of products.

prepared the tank you can then set about buying your plants.

Tetratec Equipment

It is important that you select plants that will not out-grow

There's a whole range of air pumps,

filter and heaters to help maintain ideal
aquarium conditions for your tropical fish.

your tank and that will be happy in your water conditions.

Often, they will be labelled with their potential size and
temperature requirements.Traditionally, tall plants are used
to create a backdrop to the tank whilst smaller ones are
positioned in the foreground.You may wish to stick to
this format or, alternatively, come up with your own
planting arrangement.

Tetra Test Kits

Ideal water conditions are simple
to monitor using the
TetraTest range of test kits.

that provides all the essential

nutrients, without encouraging the
growth of algae.

Carbon Dioxide

and it will not encourage the growth of algae. It is quickly

TetraMin & TetraMin Pro

Nutritionally balanced tropical fish food in
flake or crisp format, that are fully digestible
for less waste and clearer aquarium water.

New plants are usually transported in plastic carrier bags,

which is fine provided that they do not dry out. If you have
bought plants that are already in small baskets then these

Micronutrients
There are a number of other elements that are important for
plants, without which they will display poor growth and
appearance. Iron is important for the synthesis of chlorophyll,
the pigment that plants use to trap the energy in light.A
deficiency of iron and other trace elements leads to a
condition called chlorosis, causing leaves to turn yellow and
brittle. Signs of deficiency will also occur if a number of other

should be removed and the rock wool around the roots

washed off. If necessary, you should cut the basket away in
order to avoid damaging the roots.They are best washed in
a bowl of water taken from your tank and at the same time
they need to be checked for snail eggs.These look like small
masses of jelly and need to be removed, as snails will eat
some species of plant and add an extra biological load to

For further information visit our website, write or email:

Tetra Information Centre, PO Box 373, Eastleigh SO53 3UX
Email: tetrauk@tetra.net

www.tetra-fish.co.uk

the tank.
TR003

Tetra-12244-TETTO5/1Planting-sj

2/4/03

10:44 AM

Page 2

Any broken or damaged parts of the plant should be cut off,

replaced with 20cm (8in) cuttings taken from the top of the

as should any brown and limp roots or dying leaves. Healthy

plant.When re-planting these cuttings, remove the lower few

roots should also be cut back by about a half, in order to

leaves so as they do not become covered and decay.

stimulate new growth.A hole should be made in the gravel

Rosette plants do not have obvious stems and tend to

Key Words
Oxygen

pH
element that is essential to fish,

used by plants in photosynthesis

and the plant inserted, then this should be back-filled to

exhibit quite dense growth.They should have any dying

cover it and hold it in place.The plant should be gently pulled

leaves removed and be thinned out from time to time.

and produced by plants and

up until its growing tip, or crown, is just visible.

This can be done by cutting away the largest outer leaves,

animals during respiration.Toxic to

and if necessary cutting the roots back to around 15cm (6in).

fish at high levels.

This will halt growth for a period of time but eventually new

plants preferring a level of 6.5 8.0

Carbonate hardness a measure of the amount of
carbonate and bicarbonate salts in
the water.These determine the
buffering capacity of the water, i.e.

non-toxic form of ammonia

how well it can resist changes in

roots will develop.

produced by fish and conversion

pH.

In addition to tidying up the plants, a fertiliser such as

from ammonia.

TetraPlant FloraPride should be added on a regular basis.

Ammonium

Nitrate

Phosphate

Laterite

biological filtration. Used by plants

into nitrite and then into nitrate.

Algae

essential constituent of fish food

green water and unsightly

brown/green growths on the tank

also encourages algae.

glass.

iron rich substrate sometimes

Shopping List

plants with extra fertilisation.

TetraPlant FloraPride / Tetra EasyBalance

referring to the range of light

Well Washed Pea Gravel

wavelengths produced by a light

Lighting System

Light Reflector

from the blue and red parts of the

Caring For Your Plants

spectrum.Therefore bulbs for

Occasionally you will have to tidy up your plants and give

plant growth should produce more

them a feed.The frequency of this will depend on the type

light from these areas of the

and number of plants that you have.Stem plants, so-called

spectrum.

between the leaves, can sometimes grow to the surface of

the tank and prevent light from reaching plants that are
lower down. If this happens, they need to be cut back. Species
that branch heavily will re-grow to their former glory after
being cut back, but those that only exhibit sparse branching
will not.The latter should be removed completely, and

Photosynthesis

primitive form of plants that cause

that is important for plants but

source. Plants primarily use light

because they have very obvious stems that can be seen

process by which beneficial filter

bacteria convert toxic ammonia

mixed in with gravel to provide

Spectrum

Biological filtration

produced from nitrite during

but also encourages algae growth.

process by which light energy is

harnessed for the production of
food from carbon dioxide and
water.

Tropical fish

from 0 14, with most fish and

plants and other animals.

Carbon dioxide

measure of how acid or alkaline

the water is.The pH scale ranges

Planting Your Tank

Tetra-12244-TETTO5/1Planting-sj

2/4/03

10:44 AM

Page 2

Any broken or damaged parts of the plant should be cut off,

replaced with 20cm (8in) cuttings taken from the top of the

as should any brown and limp roots or dying leaves. Healthy

plant.When re-planting these cuttings, remove the lower few

roots should also be cut back by about a half, in order to

leaves so as they do not become covered and decay.

stimulate new growth.A hole should be made in the gravel

Rosette plants do not have obvious stems and tend to

Key Words
Oxygen

pH
element that is essential to fish,

used by plants in photosynthesis

and the plant inserted, then this should be back-filled to

exhibit quite dense growth.They should have any dying

cover it and hold it in place.The plant should be gently pulled

leaves removed and be thinned out from time to time.

and produced by plants and

up until its growing tip, or crown, is just visible.

This can be done by cutting away the largest outer leaves,

animals during respiration.Toxic to

and if necessary cutting the roots back to around 15cm (6in).

fish at high levels.

This will halt growth for a period of time but eventually new

plants preferring a level of 6.5 8.0

Carbonate hardness a measure of the amount of
carbonate and bicarbonate salts in
the water.These determine the
buffering capacity of the water, i.e.

non-toxic form of ammonia

how well it can resist changes in

roots will develop.

produced by fish and conversion

pH.

In addition to tidying up the plants, a fertiliser such as

from ammonia.

TetraPlant FloraPride should be added on a regular basis.

Ammonium

Nitrate

Phosphate

Laterite

biological filtration. Used by plants

into nitrite and then into nitrate.

Algae

essential constituent of fish food

green water and unsightly

brown/green growths on the tank

also encourages algae.

glass.

iron rich substrate sometimes

Shopping List

plants with extra fertilisation.

TetraPlant FloraPride / Tetra EasyBalance

referring to the range of light

Well Washed Pea Gravel

wavelengths produced by a light

Lighting System

Light Reflector

from the blue and red parts of the

Caring For Your Plants

spectrum.Therefore bulbs for

Occasionally you will have to tidy up your plants and give

plant growth should produce more

them a feed.The frequency of this will depend on the type

light from these areas of the

and number of plants that you have.Stem plants, so-called

spectrum.

between the leaves, can sometimes grow to the surface of

the tank and prevent light from reaching plants that are
lower down. If this happens, they need to be cut back. Species
that branch heavily will re-grow to their former glory after
being cut back, but those that only exhibit sparse branching
will not.The latter should be removed completely, and

Photosynthesis

primitive form of plants that cause

that is important for plants but

source. Plants primarily use light

because they have very obvious stems that can be seen

process by which beneficial filter

bacteria convert toxic ammonia

mixed in with gravel to provide

Spectrum

Biological filtration

produced from nitrite during

but also encourages algae growth.

process by which light energy is

harnessed for the production of
food from carbon dioxide and
water.

Tropical fish

from 0 14, with most fish and

plants and other animals.

Carbon dioxide

measure of how acid or alkaline

the water is.The pH scale ranges

Planting Your Tank

Tetra-12244-TETTO5/1Planting-sj

2/4/03

10:44 AM

Page 2

Any broken or damaged parts of the plant should be cut off,

replaced with 20cm (8in) cuttings taken from the top of the

as should any brown and limp roots or dying leaves. Healthy

plant.When re-planting these cuttings, remove the lower few

roots should also be cut back by about a half, in order to

leaves so as they do not become covered and decay.

stimulate new growth.A hole should be made in the gravel

Rosette plants do not have obvious stems and tend to

Key Words
Oxygen

pH
element that is essential to fish,

used by plants in photosynthesis

and the plant inserted, then this should be back-filled to

exhibit quite dense growth.They should have any dying

cover it and hold it in place.The plant should be gently pulled

leaves removed and be thinned out from time to time.

and produced by plants and

up until its growing tip, or crown, is just visible.

This can be done by cutting away the largest outer leaves,

animals during respiration.Toxic to

and if necessary cutting the roots back to around 15cm (6in).

fish at high levels.

This will halt growth for a period of time but eventually new

plants preferring a level of 6.5 8.0

Carbonate hardness a measure of the amount of
carbonate and bicarbonate salts in
the water.These determine the
buffering capacity of the water, i.e.

non-toxic form of ammonia

how well it can resist changes in

roots will develop.

produced by fish and conversion

pH.

In addition to tidying up the plants, a fertiliser such as

from ammonia.

TetraPlant FloraPride should be added on a regular basis.

Ammonium

Nitrate

Phosphate

Laterite

biological filtration. Used by plants

into nitrite and then into nitrate.

Algae

essential constituent of fish food

green water and unsightly

brown/green growths on the tank

also encourages algae.

glass.

iron rich substrate sometimes

Shopping List

plants with extra fertilisation.

TetraPlant FloraPride / Tetra EasyBalance

referring to the range of light

Well Washed Pea Gravel

wavelengths produced by a light

Lighting System

Light Reflector

from the blue and red parts of the

Caring For Your Plants

spectrum.Therefore bulbs for

Occasionally you will have to tidy up your plants and give

plant growth should produce more

them a feed.The frequency of this will depend on the type

light from these areas of the

and number of plants that you have.Stem plants, so-called

spectrum.

between the leaves, can sometimes grow to the surface of

the tank and prevent light from reaching plants that are
lower down. If this happens, they need to be cut back. Species
that branch heavily will re-grow to their former glory after
being cut back, but those that only exhibit sparse branching
will not.The latter should be removed completely, and

Photosynthesis

primitive form of plants that cause

that is important for plants but

source. Plants primarily use light

because they have very obvious stems that can be seen

process by which beneficial filter

bacteria convert toxic ammonia

mixed in with gravel to provide

Spectrum

Biological filtration

produced from nitrite during

but also encourages algae growth.

process by which light energy is

harnessed for the production of
food from carbon dioxide and
water.

Tropical fish

from 0 14, with most fish and

plants and other animals.

Carbon dioxide

measure of how acid or alkaline

the water is.The pH scale ranges

Planting Your Tank

Tetra-12244-TETTO5/1Planting-sj

2/4/03

10:44 AM

Page 2

Any broken or damaged parts of the plant should be cut off,

replaced with 20cm (8in) cuttings taken from the top of the

as should any brown and limp roots or dying leaves. Healthy

plant.When re-planting these cuttings, remove the lower few

roots should also be cut back by about a half, in order to

leaves so as they do not become covered and decay.

stimulate new growth.A hole should be made in the gravel

Rosette plants do not have obvious stems and tend to

Key Words
Oxygen

pH
element that is essential to fish,

used by plants in photosynthesis

and the plant inserted, then this should be back-filled to

exhibit quite dense growth.They should have any dying

cover it and hold it in place.The plant should be gently pulled

leaves removed and be thinned out from time to time.

and produced by plants and

up until its growing tip, or crown, is just visible.

This can be done by cutting away the largest outer leaves,

animals during respiration.Toxic to

and if necessary cutting the roots back to around 15cm (6in).

fish at high levels.

This will halt growth for a period of time but eventually new

plants preferring a level of 6.5 8.0

Carbonate hardness a measure of the amount of
carbonate and bicarbonate salts in
the water.These determine the
buffering capacity of the water, i.e.

non-toxic form of ammonia

how well it can resist changes in

roots will develop.

produced by fish and conversion

pH.

In addition to tidying up the plants, a fertiliser such as

from ammonia.

TetraPlant FloraPride should be added on a regular basis.

Ammonium

Nitrate

Phosphate

Laterite

biological filtration. Used by plants

into nitrite and then into nitrate.

Algae

essential constituent of fish food

green water and unsightly

brown/green growths on the tank

also encourages algae.

glass.

iron rich substrate sometimes

Shopping List

plants with extra fertilisation.

TetraPlant FloraPride / Tetra EasyBalance

referring to the range of light

Well Washed Pea Gravel

wavelengths produced by a light

Lighting System

Light Reflector

from the blue and red parts of the

Caring For Your Plants

spectrum.Therefore bulbs for

Occasionally you will have to tidy up your plants and give

plant growth should produce more

them a feed.The frequency of this will depend on the type

light from these areas of the

and number of plants that you have.Stem plants, so-called

spectrum.

between the leaves, can sometimes grow to the surface of

the tank and prevent light from reaching plants that are
lower down. If this happens, they need to be cut back. Species
that branch heavily will re-grow to their former glory after
being cut back, but those that only exhibit sparse branching
will not.The latter should be removed completely, and

Photosynthesis

primitive form of plants that cause

that is important for plants but

source. Plants primarily use light

because they have very obvious stems that can be seen

process by which beneficial filter

bacteria convert toxic ammonia

mixed in with gravel to provide

Spectrum

Biological filtration

produced from nitrite during

but also encourages algae growth.

process by which light energy is

harnessed for the production of
food from carbon dioxide and
water.

Tropical fish

from 0 14, with most fish and

plants and other animals.

Carbon dioxide

measure of how acid or alkaline

the water is.The pH scale ranges

Planting Your Tank

Tetra-12244-TETTO5/1Planting-sj

2/4/03

10:44 AM

Page 1

Why Have Plants?

planting substrates such as laterite can be included in the

determining carbon dioxide levels in your aquarium.These

elements are not present in sufficient quantities, for example

Apart from their aesthetic appeal, plants serve a

gravel, in order to provide the plants with a constant source

levels should be measured during the day when the plants are

manganese, copper, zinc, molybdenum etc.

number of useful functions in the aquarium.

of iron and other trace elements.

using up carbon dioxide, as at night they stop

It is therefore essential to use a quality plant fertiliser that

They provide shelter and natural hiding places for

All plants require light as a source of energy and so it is

photosynthesising and therefore do not require it. If

will supply the plants with everything that they need, without

the fish.

important to provide them with sufficient amounts. Most

necessary, it is possible to add additional carbon dioxide to

encouraging the growth of algae. TetraPlant FloraPride

people start with standard fluorescent tubes, which in most

the water in order to improve plant growth.

contains all of the elements essential for healthy plant growth

They produce oxygen and use up carbon dioxide.

They help to remove ammonium from the tank.

Plants require light from the blue and red areas of the

They help to remove nitrate and phosphate, which

spectrum and so it is important to select a bulb that is

Plants require a variety of other essential nutrients in order

prolonged and healthy growth, and it encourages the

would otherwise build up and encourage algal growth.

specifically designed for encouraging plant growth.As a

to thrive and grow well. Ammonium and nitrate are

production of rich and colourful leaves. It should be added

They create a surface upon which beneficial micro-

general rule of thumb, for most standard tanks each litre of

natural products of fish excretion and biological filtration,

after every partial water change or, alternatively,

organisms can attach.

water requires 0.5W of power. For example, a 60 litre

and are both utilised by plants. Ammonium tends to be

at monthly intervals.

Some species produce substances that help to reduce

aquarium would require a 30W fluorescent tube. Installing a

scarce in mature tanks as it is rapidly broken down into

numbers of harmful bacteria in the tank.

light reflector into the lid of the tank can greatly increase the

nitrate. Nitrate is the end product of biological filtration

amount of light hitting the water.

and is therefore present in quite high quantities in tanks that

The root systems of aquatic plants release small

instances are sufficient to encourage good plant growth.

amounts of oxygen, thereby helping to avoid stagnation

Light tubes should be replaced approximately every 6

of the substrate.

months, as over time their efficiency drops.

There is a huge range of plants available for the tropical and

coldwater aquarium, some of which are very easy to care for
and others that take more work.

Preparing Your Tank For Plants

There are one or two things that you can do to make sure
that your tank is suitable for encouraging healthy plant
growth.The substrate should be slightly deeper than in a
non-planted tank, in order to accommodate the root systems
and any planting media.An ideal depth would be 5 7 cm
(2 3 inches) of well-washed gravel.Avoid using very fine
gravel or sand, as it
tends to compact
and create stagnant
areas, reducing
water circulation
around plant roots.
Slow release
fertilisers or special

Nitrates and Phosphates

are well stocked with fish. However, it also encourages the

growth of unsightly algae and therefore it ideally needs to
be presented in a form that makes it

What Do Plants Need?

In order to thrive, plants require a number of different
elements to be available. Just like fish and other animals, they
require oxygen in order to respire and release energy.A
healthy tank with healthy fish should have sufficient oxygen
for good plant growth. However, vigorous aeration is not
necessarily a good thing in planted tanks as it drives off
carbon dioxide, which plants also need.Therefore, wellplanted tanks should not be over-stocked with fish, as
otherwise additional aeration will be required.

accessible to plants but that does not

promote algal growth. Phosphate is
also very important for plant
growth and photosynthesis,
although again it is important that it
is in a form that does not
encourage algae. TetraPlant
FloraPride is a liquid plant food

Plants need carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. In most

tanks, there will be sufficient carbon dioxide for moderate
plant growth, however, for the serious plant grower this
becomes a critical water quality parameter.The amount of
carbon dioxide in the water is influenced by temperature,
pH and carbonate hardness. The Tetratest Laborett
test kit contains the necessary test kits and charts for

and efficiently absorbed through roots and leaves for

Tetra Speciality & Treat Foods
The widest range of speciality foods to suit
you aquariums individual needs and a range
of treat foods that your fish will love.

Alternatively, if you use Tetra EasyBalance then this

supplies all of the plants needs, encouraging good growth.

Planting
Once you have obtained all of the necessary equipment and

Tetra Water Care

There is no easier way to keep your
aquarium water in peak condition than with
Tetra's water care range of products.

prepared the tank you can then set about buying your plants.

Tetratec Equipment

It is important that you select plants that will not out-grow

There's a whole range of air pumps,

filter and heaters to help maintain ideal
aquarium conditions for your tropical fish.

your tank and that will be happy in your water conditions.

Often, they will be labelled with their potential size and
temperature requirements.Traditionally, tall plants are used
to create a backdrop to the tank whilst smaller ones are
positioned in the foreground.You may wish to stick to
this format or, alternatively, come up with your own
planting arrangement.

Tetra Test Kits

Ideal water conditions are simple
to monitor using the
TetraTest range of test kits.

that provides all the essential

nutrients, without encouraging the
growth of algae.

Carbon Dioxide

and it will not encourage the growth of algae. It is quickly

TetraMin & TetraMin Pro

Nutritionally balanced tropical fish food in
flake or crisp format, that are fully digestible
for less waste and clearer aquarium water.

New plants are usually transported in plastic carrier bags,

which is fine provided that they do not dry out. If you have
bought plants that are already in small baskets then these

Micronutrients
There are a number of other elements that are important for
plants, without which they will display poor growth and
appearance. Iron is important for the synthesis of chlorophyll,
the pigment that plants use to trap the energy in light.A
deficiency of iron and other trace elements leads to a
condition called chlorosis, causing leaves to turn yellow and
brittle. Signs of deficiency will also occur if a number of other

should be removed and the rock wool around the roots

washed off. If necessary, you should cut the basket away in
order to avoid damaging the roots.They are best washed in
a bowl of water taken from your tank and at the same time
they need to be checked for snail eggs.These look like small
masses of jelly and need to be removed, as snails will eat
some species of plant and add an extra biological load to

For further information visit our website, write or email:

Tetra Information Centre, PO Box 373, Eastleigh SO53 3UX
Email: tetrauk@tetra.net

www.tetra-fish.co.uk

the tank.
TR003