If you’re looking for an interesting way to spruce up your home, consider growing houseplants in an aquarium. It can be a fun and unique way to show off your green thumb and create a unique and beautiful environment.
With the right supplies and knowledge, it’s not as hard as you might think. From lighting and water to soil and specialty supplies, you have all the tools you need to get started. And with the many types of houseplants available, you can customize your aquarium to your liking and create a personalized environment for your home.
Why consider an aquarium for houseplants
Considering an aquarium for your houseplants is a great way to spruce up your home and make it more inviting. An aquarium provides a unique environment for plants to flourish in and can often make for a more aesthetically pleasing display than you would have with a regular pot or planter. You can also experiment with different types of plants and get creative with the set up of your aquarium. Aquariums are relatively easy to maintain, and the cost of setting one up is usually not too high.
Factors for Growing Houseplants in an Aquarium
When looking to grow houseplants in an aquarium, there are several important factors to consider. Lighting is a major factor for any plant and for plants in an aquarium, it is important to use the right kind of lighting.
The best option for most aquariums is to add a fluorescent tube and then place the aquarium in a bright spot, such as near a window. Water is also important for plants in an aquarium and it is important to have the right amount of water and the right pH level. It is important to use soil that is suitable for plants in an aquarium, usually a combination of soil, gravel and sand.
You will need to ensure that you have the right supplies, such as an air pump, thermometer, and a timer, to ensure the health of your plants. Growing houseplants in an aquarium can be a rewarding experience if you take the time to ensure you have the right factors in place. With the right kind of lighting, water, soil and supplies, you can create a thriving underwater garden.
Lighting
When it comes to lighting for your houseplants in an aquarium, you want to ensure you are providing them with enough light. Natural light is the best option, but if you can’t provide natural light to the aquarium, you will need a more specialized light source. You can use a combination of LED lights and a fluorescent light.
If you decide to use LED lights, you need to make sure that the wattage is high enough for your aquarium, and that it provides the correct spectrum of light for the type of plants you are growing. If you decide to use a fluorescent light, you want to make sure it is strong enough and that the light spectrum is similar to natural light.
You don’t want to put the light too close or too far away from the plants as this can affect their growth. It’s important to adjust the lighting times and intensity throughout the day to mimic natural daylight. This will help your plants stay healthy and thrive in the aquarium.
Water
When it comes to growing houseplants in an aquarium, water is a key factor. The best option is to use aged water.
This means allowing the water to sit out for a day or two before adding it to the aquarium, giving it a chance to become oxygenated and to off gas any residual chlorine or other chemicals. You may want to consider adding a water conditioner or dechlorinator to the water.
This can help to ensure that the water will be safe for the plants and the fish. When filling the aquarium with water, it’s important to remember that the water should be shallow enough that the plants will be able to access the light. You should also make sure that the water is not too deep and that the aquarium is not too large for the plants.
You don’t want to overcrowd the plants, as this can cause them to struggle to access the light, air, and nutrients that they need.
You’ll need to keep an eye on the pH level of the water. Different houseplants have different needs, so it’s important to research the specific needs of the plants you’ll be placing in the aquarium. You may need to adjust the pH level to ensure that the plants grow in the best conditions possible.
Soil
Soil is important for the success of your houseplant-in-aquarium setup. Nutrient-rich, organic potting soil is the best choice for growing houseplants in an aquarium. It’s important to make sure the soil has good drainage and aeration so that the houseplants can get the oxygen they need.
If the soil is too heavy, the plants won’t be able to get the oxygen they require.
Make sure to add some perlite or vermiculite to the soil to help with drainage and aeration. You should add a layer of activated charcoal at the bottom of the aquarium to help filter out any impurities in the water.
You can also supplement the soil with a slow-release fertilizer to keep your houseplants healthy and strong. Make sure to use the fertilizer sparingly, as the plants can quickly become over-fertilized. It’s important to keep the soil moist but not soggy, as this can lead to root rot. Test the soil with your fingers to make sure it is damp but not wet before adding more water.
Aquarium Supplies
When it comes to growing houseplants in an aquarium, there are some essential supplies that you’ll need. First and foremost, a quality aquarium hood and lighting system is a must. Look for a hood that can hold a fluorescent bulb and that is designed for your aquarium.
You’ll also want to invest in aquarium gravel or sand and a substrate for the plants to grow in. A pump or filter is essential to keep your tank clean and the water circulating.
Aside from the basics, there are other items to consider.
An air pump can help keep the water oxygenated, and an aquarium heater can help maintain the temperature to keep your plants healthy. Many hobbyists recommend adding a few live plants to the tank, such as hornwort or anacharis, to help balance the ecosystem and provide a food source for your houseplants.
Don’t forget about the aesthetic of your aquarium. You may want to add some decorations or rocks to create a pleasing environment, or you could even create a natural landscape with substrate and plants. With the right supplies, your aquarium will be the perfect environment for growing beautiful houseplants.
Types of Houseplants to Grow in an Aquarium
When it comes to growing houseplants in an aquarium, you have plenty of options to choose from. A few low-light plants, such as anubias, java fern, and java moss, are ideal choices for beginners. These plants require minimal care, so they’re perfect for those just starting out.
If you want to introduce some color, try adding floating plants like duckweed or water lettuce. These are great for adding a splash of vibrancy to your aquarium.
And don’t forget about stem plants like cabomba and myriophyllum, which provide a great background for your tank. With some careful planning, you can create a lush and vibrant environment for your aquatic plants.