Lighting Help For A 5 Gallon 30Cm(H)X30Cm(L)X25Cm(W)

[CraigR8594]

Hi,
Im looking for a light unit that I could use with this tank to grow plants as the one that's came with it is an 9w arc pod and although im dosing fertilizers and liquid co2 im not really getting the growth or colour I want (red plants turning green etc).
 
Has anyone any ideas on a light that would be better suited to this tank that's not going to cost mega money as being a student its not possible to spend such amounts.
 
Any help would be appreciated.
 
Thanks Craig

 

[techen]

Have a look at these

www.ebay.co.uk/itm/170820329416?redirect=mobile

I'd get the duels thats 11watts and another 11 watts.

 

[Ps3Steveo]

Keeping plants red isn't just about the amount of light, its also about the amount of CO2 diffused into the water so using liquid carbon wont work as well but upping the lighting might a little.

 

[lalo99]

Most red plants like high lighting. You should be looking at around 3 watts per gallon of lighting. At such a high amount of light you will probably need to add C02.
 
Your almost a 2 watts per gallon. Try moving the tank so it gets  at leats a few hours of  direct sunlight. Sunlight is free.

 

[Ps3Steveo]

Direct sunlight outside your photo period will only start some algae as it will extend your photo period, high light alone wont do the trick trust me, good CO2 is a must.
 
Amano doesn't use high lighting and he keeps his red plants red.