How to Grow Plants in a Fish Tank and Why It Benefits Your Fish

By / September 19th, 2025 / There are currently 0 comments

Live aquarium plants do more than just make your tank look beautiful; they are crucial in maintaining a balanced and healthy aquatic environment. Aquatic plants are essential to any successful setup, from helping regulate water quality to giving your fish places to explore and hide.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of planting in a fish tank, offer detailed advice on how to grow plants in a fish tank, and answer common questions, such as: Can fish tank plants grow in gravel? Whether you’re a first-time hobbyist or looking to improve your tank’s ecosystem, this guide will help you get started.

Table of contents:

How to Grow Plants in a Fish Tank and Why It Benefits Your Fish. A round fish tank with a fish and a fake aquatic plant inside.

How to Plant Plants in a Fish Tank

The first step in creating a planted aquarium is understanding how to plant plants in a fish tank correctly. It’s not as difficult as it might seem, but a good foundation is key.

1. Choose the Right Plants

Different plants thrive under different conditions. We recommend hardy species that don’t require CO₂ injection or specialist lighting for beginners. Some great starter plants include:

  • Java Fern – can be tied to rocks or driftwood.
  • Anubias – low-light tolerant and slow-growing.
  • Amazon Sword – popular for background planting.
  • Cryptocoryne – great for mid-ground use with minimal maintenance.

2. Prepare the Substrate

Your substrate is more than decoration; it’s the root zone for your plants. While some species can attach to surfaces, many require rooting. If you prefer gravel for aesthetic or functional reasons, be sure to combine it with root tabs or a base layer of nutrient substrate to support plant health.

3. Plant Carefully

Once your substrate is in place, carry out the following steps:

  • Remove any damaged leaves or roots.
  • Use aquarium tweezers to place plants without disturbing your aquascape.
  • Bury the roots gently, leaving the crown exposed.
  • Anchor floating plants or rhizome species (like Java Fern) to rocks or wood using thread or aquarium-safe glue.

How to Grow Plants in a Fish Tank

How to Grow Plants in a Fish Tank. A clown fish exploring an anemone.

Planting is only the beginning. You’ll need to maintain a plant-friendly environment to ensure ongoing growth and health.

1. Lighting

Plants need light to photosynthesise. Aquarium-specific LED lights provide the right spectrum and intensity for plant growth. A standard lighting schedule is 8–10 hours per day. Too much light can lead to algae issues, so use a timer for consistency.

2. Fertilisation

Nutrients like iron, potassium, and magnesium are vital. You can add these via:

  • Liquid fertilisers.
  • Root tabs for heavy root feeders. 

3. CO₂ Supplementation

While many plants will grow fine without added CO₂, faster-growing or more delicate species thrive with it. CO₂ improves growth rates and leaf colouration, helping your aquarium stay lush and vibrant.

4. Routine Care

Trim dead or decaying leaves, remove algae by hand or with an algae scraper, and test water regularly. Stable pH (between 6.5 and 7.5 for most plants), gentle filtration, and good circulation all contribute to plant success. A good test kit can help you determine whether or not your aquarium is at the right pH level, and treatment kits can help you maintain it when necessary.

Can Fish Tank Plants Grow in Gravel?

One of the most frequently asked questions is: Can fish tank plants grow in gravel? The short answer is yes, but with a few considerations.

While gravel is a common substrate choice due to its affordability and ease of cleaning, it’s not naturally nutrient-rich. However, with the right approach, it can still support healthy plant growth:

  • Use root tabs: these slow-release fertiliser capsules can be placed under plant roots to mimic nutrient-rich soil.
  • Choose compatible plants: hardy plants like Vallisneria, Java Fern (tied to decorations), and Anubias will grow well in gravel setups.
  • Watch your depth: ensure there’s at least 5–7 cm of gravel to anchor root systems.

For best results, consider mixing gravel with enriched substrates or use gravel only in specific zones and plant elsewhere in nutrient-rich areas.

Can I Put Real Plants in My Fish Tank?

Yes, you can, and in fact, you should!

Here are just a few benefits of adding real plants to your aquarium:

  • Improved water quality: Live plants absorb nitrates, ammonia, and other toxins that build up from fish waste and leftover food.
  • Natural oxygenation: Through photosynthesis, plants produce oxygen, benefiting both fish and beneficial bacteria.
  • Stress reduction for fish: Plants provide shelter and visual breaks, especially for shy or territorial species.
  • Algae prevention: Competing with algae for nutrients, live plants can help keep algae under control naturally.

Other Common Questions

While the answers to the above questions should be sufficient to get you started, there are a few other common questions worth exploring.

Can I put any plant in my fish tank?

Not quite. Only use aquatic or semi-aquatic plants that can thrive submerged. Some decorative ‘aquarium plants’ sold elsewhere may be terrestrial and will rot underwater.

How long do aquarium plants take to grow?

Growth rates vary. Fast growers like Hornwort and Water Wisteria may establish in weeks, while slower growers like Anubias could take months to show visible changes.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re aiming to build a jungle-like aquascape or just want to add a few green accents, planting in a fish tank brings both beauty and balance to your setup. With the right care and supplies, you can enjoy a thriving, low-maintenance aquatic environment that your fish will love.

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