The ultimate guide to setting up a simple yet stunning planted aquarium – from A to Z

Dreaming of creating your own beautiful planted aquarium without all the fuss? You’re in the right place! At Terrarium Vibe, we’ll walk you through each step to help you build a low-maintenance aquascape that’s both charming and beginner-friendly.

Why choose a simple planted aquarium?

A simple aquascape isn’t just budget-friendly—it’s the perfect starting point for anyone new to the mesmerizing world of aquariums and terrariums. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

• Low maintenance: Forget about complex CO₂ systems or high-end lighting. All you need is a basic LED light and some hardy aquatic plants to keep your tank looking naturally vibrant.
• Budget-friendly: Compared to large, high-tech tanks, a minimalist aquarium requires fewer tools and materials—making it easier on your wallet from the start.
• Easy to customize: A simple setup gives you the flexibility to tweak and redesign without worrying about disrupting a delicate ecosystem.
• Stress-relief at its best: Watching your aquatic world flourish can ease stress, boost your mood, and bring a calming energy into your space.
  

  Why choose a simple planted aquarium?

Essential tools for a simple aquarium setup

Before you dive in, take a moment to gather these basic (but essential) supplies:

• Glass tank: Choose a compact size—anywhere from 5 to 10 gallons (20–40 liters)—for easy decorating and maintenance.
• LED lighting: A soft white-yellow LED light works great for hardy plants like Java fern, moss, and Anubias.
• Water filter: Go for a mini filter or hang-on-back model to keep your water clear and debris-free.
• Substrate: Use nutrient-rich soil or decorative gravel to create a clean and structured layout.
• Aquatic plants: Stick with easy-care plants like Hygrophila, Anubias barteri, or hornwort to keep things simple.
• Hardscape materials: Add stones and driftwood to give your tank depth and a more natural aesthetic.

Essential tools for a simple aquarium setup

How to set up a simple planted aquarium – step by step

No prior experience? No problem. Just follow these beginner-friendly steps:

1. Prep your tank and choose a spot
   Pick a tank between 16–24 inches wide (40–60 cm) for easy care. Place it away from direct sunlight and electrical appliances. Rinse thoroughly with clean water—skip the soap.
2. Create the substrate base
   Add a 1–2 inch (3–5 cm) layer of planted tank soil to feed your plants. Top it off with a thin layer of sand or gravel to keep the water clear. Slightly slope the substrate from back to front for added depth.
3. Add hardscape elements
   Select 2–3 visually striking rocks or pieces of driftwood. Use the “one-third rule” to create a focal point and secure them well to avoid shifting when you fill the tank.
4. Plant easy-grow species

• Background plants: Hornwort, Vallisneria
• Midground plants: Java fern, Anubias
• Foreground plants: Dwarf baby tears, dwarf hairgrass
  Attach mosses to rocks or wood with clear thread or nylon string for a natural look.

5. Final touches
   Slowly fill your tank using a plate or filter sponge to prevent disturbing the layout. Install your filter and lighting system. Let the tank run for 1–2 weeks before adding any fish. During the first month, change 30% of the water weekly to stabilize the ecosystem.

How to set up a simple planted aquarium – step by step

Best fish and shrimp for a beautiful yet simple aquarium

Start with beginner-friendly species that thrive in small planted tanks:

• Fish: Neon tetras, white clouds, and guppies are colorful, peaceful, and easy to care for. Their small size (2–5 cm) makes them ideal for smaller aquariums.
• Cleanup crew: Add a few otocinclus or corydoras catfish to help keep the tank clean naturally.
• Shrimp: Bright red cherry shrimp, golden shrimp, or blue dream shrimp add a splash of color and charm. Amano shrimp are also excellent algae eaters and low-maintenance.
  

  Best fish and shrimp for a beautiful yet simple aquarium

Pro tip for stocking:
Try this balanced mix: 10–15 neon tetras, 5–7 white cloud minnows, 2–3 otocinclus, and 10–15 cherry shrimp. Avoid aggressive or oversized fish, and don’t overcrowd. Always quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank.

When introducing new fish, turn off the lights to minimize stress, feed lightly during the first week, and monitor their health closely. Continue weekly 30% water changes to keep everything clean and healthy.

With just a handful of simple steps, you can create your own enchanting underwater world—no fancy tools or expert knowledge required. Terrarium Vibe hopes this guide gives you the confidence to dive into the world of planted aquariums and enjoy every moment of it.