Planted Tank - Axolotl, Advise Needed

[leandrah]

Hello,
I am wanting to do a planted tank for my Axies,

I found a really great post on here with regards to how to do it without Co2,
This is all great but i just have one question,

What substrate should i use? and what should i use under the substrate to plant the plants into? - I just need some suggestions that are Axie friendly

Please
thank you

 

[scorpio110684]

It all depends on the size of your axie. Most people will use a sand substrate but it is recommended to only use it when your axie is at least 5 inches. I bought live plants from a local pet store and they had weights on them to keep them down to the bottom of the tank, so I don't have to plant them.

 

[Lianne]

The weights (often lead) will release toxic products in your water. It would be better if you could get them off. Also, when you plant the individual stems, the light will reach the lower leaves much better than when they're so tightly packed together, so those leaves don't die and rot.

 

[scorpio110684]

The weights (often lead) will release toxic products in your water. It would be better if you could get them off. Also, when you plant the individual stems, the light will reach the lower leaves much better than when they're so tightly packed together, so those leaves don't die and rot.

Yes I guess I should have said that in my post but if the weight is lead then you will have problems. I use pieces of driftwood to anchor them down.

 

[Lianne]

Driftwood works great of course Especially if it's a plant that grows/fastens itself on wood!

 

[leandrah]

I have sand in my tank, but it is such a mission to clean

 

[Geckogal]

As of now I have black sand with live plants. I have Anubias in my tank along with some Java Fern and Marimo Moss Balls. Most of these types of plants do not like having their roots buried. So your best bet is to tie them to driftwood and let them grow on that naturally. You can also put different types of moss like Java moss or Christmas Moss, but I avoid them just because they spread like crazy and are hard to get rid of sometimes. They are all low light plants that do not require much light, which your axolotls will appreciate.