Ok here I go for my first planted tank

[Bobdole10]

I got some good tips but now need to know where you the "pros" buy your supplies my LFS is only fish and common stuff. I need to know where to get plants, lights and substrate. If you can please let me know that would be great.

Thanks JEREMY

ps. I am also looking for any sites that might have tank lay out ideas

its going to be a 30 gallon tank with fluval 304 filter. the hood has standard bulb but want to get something that will help plants grow really nice.

 

[QHowes]

Hi there okay for tank layout ideas you wont find a better place then the Tank of the month nominations and winners. As for substrate for planted tanks I use just plain coloured tank gravel. When buying plants try and pick plants without any snails in the tank. Often times you wont know it but you will get snails in your tank and then you will never ever get rid of all of them. Easy plants to maintain and take care of are Java Ferns. Most LFS carry them becuase they are cheap and easy. Hope this helps

 

[Colin_BC]

As for lighting, I found it wasn't worth it to pay a LFS for lights in the long run. I found VHO fluoro fixtures at approx 60 Watts per tube/fixture at $150 CAD each. For my 30G tank and desired light of 4 WPG, it would have cost me over $300 for the lights. I ended up building my own overkill setup of canopy/lights for about $100, which now gives me 6 WPG. If you are not afraid of using a couple tools, I'd really recommend building your own caopy so you have full control over cost and light. Feel free to ask me if you have any questions.

Colin