Comprehensive Planting Guide for Aquatic Forest Aquascapes

Preparation Phase

1. Hardscape Setup

  1. Driftwood Positioning
    • Arrange primary "tree trunk" pieces first
    • Angle wood to create natural-looking growth patterns
    • Secure heavy bases with aquarium silicone
  2. Stone Placement
    • Position larger stones as "boulders"
    • Create depth with smaller stones in background
    • Leave adequate planting pockets

2. Substrate System

  1. Base Layer
    • 1-2 inch soil substrate (ADA Amazonia recommended)
    • Slope from back to front (3:1 ratio)
  2. Cap Layer
    • 1 inch fine sand or small gravel
    • Creates natural forest floor appearance

Planting Process

Step 1: Moss Attachment (Canopy Creation)

  1. Preparation
    • Divide moss into 1-2 inch portions
    • Remove excess moisture with paper towels
  2. Attachment Methods
    • Cotton thread (tie loosely around branches)
    • Super glue gel (apply small dots)
    • Mesh wrapping (for dense canopy effects)
  3. Placement Tips
    • Focus on upper 1/3 of hardscape
    • Leave some branches bare for contrast
    • Mist frequently during setup

Step 2: Epiphyte Planting (Mid-Story)

  1. Rhizome Preparation
    • Trim damaged roots/leaves
    • Separate large clumps
  2. Mounting Techniques
    • Use fishing line for heavy plants
    • Super glue for small specimens
    • Wedge into wood crevices
  3. Species Placement
    • Bucephalandra near viewing angles
    • Anubias in shaded areas
    • Ferns on vertical surfaces

Step 3: Stem Plant Installation

  1. Preparation
    • Trim roots to 1 inch
    • Remove emersed-grown leaves
    • Group by species
  2. Planting Method
    • Use curved tweezers
    • Insert at 45° angle
    • Space 1-2 inches apart
  3. Arrangement Strategy
    • Taller species in background
    • Medium height in midground
    • Create depth with perspective

Step 4: Carpeting Plants (Forest Floor)

  1. Dry Start Method
    • Plant before filling tank
    • Keep humidity near 100%
    • Mist daily for 3-4 weeks
  2. Submerged Planting
    • Divide into small portions
    • Plant using "dibbling" technique
    • Space 1 inch apart
  3. Initial Care
    • Reduce water flow
    • Provide CO2 immediately
    • Prune runners weekly

Post-Planting Care

1. Water Management

  • Initial 50% water changes daily for 1 week
  • Use dechlorinator
  • Maintain temperature at 75-78°F

2. Lighting Schedule

  • Week 1: 4 hours daily
  • Week 2: 5 hours
  • Week 3: 6-8 hours (normal photoperiod)

3. Fertilization

  • Start macros after 1 week
  • Begin micros after 2 weeks
  • Adjust based on plant response

Maintenance Routine

  1. Weekly Tasks
    • Trim stem plants
    • Remove algae from moss
    • Vacuum debris
  2. Monthly Tasks
    • Thin out overgrowth
    • Reattach loose epiphytes
    • Deep clean filter
  3. Seasonal Adjustments
    • Rotate color plants
    • Change pruning patterns
    • Adjust fertilizer ratios

Troubleshooting Guide

  1. Common Issues
    • Moss browning: Increase flow
    • Epiphyte melt: Check water parameters
    • Carpet lifting: Add more substrate
  2. Growth Problems
    • Slow growth: Check CO2/ferts
    • Leggy stems: Increase light
    • Pale leaves: Add iron
  3. Algae Control
    • Spot treat with hydrogen peroxide
    • Introduce algae eaters
    • Adjust light/nutrient balance

Final Composition Tips

  • Leave negative space for contrast
  • Create focal points with color/texture
  • Allow 3-6 months for full maturation
  • Document growth progress with photos