Introducing seeds to a mature aquarium

[lavenderbug]

Can this be done after a tank is filled or is it only allowed beforehand?

[cavallo]

I'm guessing it depends on the type of seeds you're using - what's the plant you're trying to grow? I've had my fair share of growing seeded plants outside the aquarium, and let me tell you, it's been a huge waste of time. Never attempted it inside the aquarium, though. Not sure if your substrate is suitable for plant growth. You might want to try using terrac or soil in water outside the aquarium to avoid any potential issues with the fish eating the seeds. Planting the seeds deep enough to prevent them from floating out during cleaning is also crucial. It's a long process, and it could take months to get a decent-sized plant going. If you're not up for the wait, getting cuttings from a friend or buying established plants might be a better option.

[SeaBidder]

@boomer's the plant expert - can you weigh in on this?

[boomer]

What type of seeds are we talking about here?

[lavenderbug]

I'm guessing it depends on the type of seeds you're using - what's the plant you're trying to grow? I've had my fair share of growing seeded plants outside the aquarium, and let me tell you, it's been a huge waste of time. Never attempted it inside the aquarium, though. Not sure if your substrate is suitable for plant growth. You might want to try using terrac or soil in water outside the aquarium to avoid any potential issues with the fish eating the seeds. Planting the seeds deep enough to prevent them from floating out during cleaning is also crucial. It's a long process, and it could take months to get a decent-sized plant going. If you're not up for the wait, getting cuttings from a friend or buying established plants might be a better option.

What kind of seeds are we talking about here?

[cavallo]

My experience with non-aquatic seeds has been pretty hit-or-miss - I've had no issues with germination, but most seeds have struggled to reach maturity. Marigolds were the exception, taking around 6 months to grow. Everything else either didn't develop a strong root system or just withered away. I was particularly disheartened when my carnivorous plants didn't make it.

Considering the challenges, I think buying pre-grown carpet plant squares might be a better option. These squares are similar to sod for your lawn and supposedly grow quickly and inexpensively - you can check out Zorchzon for more info. I'd recommend skipping the seeding process altogether. Have you ever tried overseeding a lawn versus laying sod? The difference is night and day. I imagine it's similar with aquarium grass. Keep in mind, my experience is with seeds outside of an aquarium.

[boomer]

I'm guessing it depends on the type of seeds you're using - what's the plant you're trying to grow? I've had my fair share of growing seeded plants outside the aquarium, and let me tell you, it's been a huge waste of time. Never attempted it inside the aquarium, though. Not sure if your substrate is suitable for plant growth. You might want to try using terrac or soil in water outside the aquarium to avoid any potential issues with the fish eating the seeds. Planting the seeds deep enough to prevent them from floating out during cleaning is also crucial. It's a long process, and it could take months to get a decent-sized plant going. If you're not up for the wait, getting cuttings from a friend or buying established plants might be a better option.

Still unclear on the seed type, are you looking at lawn grass or something specific for the aquarium? Most aquatic plants don't seed well submerged, so I'm curious about the "carpeting plant" you're thinking of.

On the substrate, I'm not sold on the Volcanic Soil idea. It's likely to bump up the GH/pH, and I'm not convinced it'll be a game-changer for plant growth.