Who Gives A Fish Forums

I've got a tank with sand substrate and wanna add some plants. What species actually thrive in sand? Heard some just die off.

Sand can work if you pick the right plants. Anubias and Java Fern are solid choices since they don't need nutrient-rich substrate. Just attach 'em to driftwood or rocks.

Yep, sand's chill for plants if ya know what to pick. My Vallisneria's been growin' like crazy in plain sand, no fancy stuff needed. Just gotta keep the lights decent.

Cryptocorynes do well in sand too. They're slow growers but super hardy once established. Just don't mess with their roots too much, they hate that.

dixiebend wrote: ↑Sat Jul 05, 2025 7:23 pm Yep, sand's chill for plants if ya know what to pick. My Vallisneria's been growin' like crazy in plain sand, no fancy stuff needed. Just gotta keep the lights decent.

Vallisneria's a great call. Mine's in a 20-gallon with sand, and it's spreadin' everywhere. Low tech, no CO2, just root tabs every few months.

Dwarf Sagittaria is another one that'll grow in sand. It's like a mini version of Vallisneria. Just needs moderate light and occasional root tabs.

I tried Amazon Swords in sand, but they kinda struggled. Maybe I didn't use enough root tabs? Anyone got tips?

mintyke wrote: ↑Sat Jul 05, 2025 11:17 pm I tried Amazon Swords in sand, but they kinda struggled. Maybe I didn't use enough root tabs? Anyone got tips?

Amazon Swords are heavy root feeders. In sand, you'll need root tabs close to the roots and maybe liquid ferts. They're doable but need more attention than Anubias or Java Fern.

I've had luck with Bacopa in sand. It's not super demanding, and the stems stay green as long as the light's decent. Just trim it back when it gets too tall.

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Gonna try Anubias and Vallisneria first and see how it goes.