planted tank help

[H2SO4]

I'm thinking of designing my own planted tank... and I am totally new in it, I know nothing about plants.

I hope to ask some experts that what should I start first to get my tank full of small 'grass'
what kind of sand to get

what I need? if you don't mind... can tell me step by step?

[Simon]

basic things needed:

1)tank - (get the biggest u can afford, bigger tanks have more stable water conditions)
2)gravel - (cheapest in the market is lonestar, think they change their name, u can use any gravel as long as they r 2-3mm diameter and doesnt contain coral chip)
3)base fertilizer - (laid at the bottom before yr gravel, gives nutrients to rosette plants or plants which absorb nutrients via the roots)
4)filter - (choice of external and internal, oso dependent on the size of the tank, internal will oso take up space in the tank)
5)lights - (depending on the choice of plants and the size of the tank again, usually lowlight plants is 2watts per gallon or highlight plants 3 or above watts per gallon)
6)CO2 system - (choice of DIY (cheaper) or cylinder, both have pros and cons.. but cylinder is easier in the long run)

u can read the past threads for more help, or jus post any questions and I'm sure the guys here will help u

for plants, u can refer to dennerle plant database or tropica plant database for visual help, they have individual requirement of each plant species

for more read ups.. u can read Thekrib FAQ to better understand the basic importance

lastly, welcome to AQ and enjoy the hobby

[sherchoo]

The explantion is quite it.... if you don't understand please feel free to ask. It's really difficult everything all at one go.

[sherchoo]

And oh yeah.... Welcome to the forum. Have a pleasnt time here.

[H2SO4]

Thanks for the info
Any good and cheap LFS to buy plants?

[sherchoo]

The most varieties and the cheapest plants in town will be Teo's plant farm in LCK. We are going there this Sat to redo Gan's planted tank. We will be going to Teo's to get the plants (refer to the thread in Chit Chat). You're most welcome to join. Best that you go cos it will be most beneficial since you're setting up a planted tank yurself.....

[DEA]

that's a most inconvenient place to get plants unless u have transport
most good planted tank lfses will be able to place orders for you
which lfs is nearest to you?

[H2SO4]

i stay in yishun area