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Plants for a Low-Tech Cube
Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2025 5:47 pm
by shakinStevens
I'm setting up a 10-gallon cube and want to keep it low-tech. What are the best plants that'll thrive without CO2 or high light? I've got sand substrate and a basic LED light.
Re: Plants for a Low-Tech Cube
Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2025 6:40 pm
by olivegrow
Anubias and Java Fern are solid choices, dude. They don't need much light and can just chill on driftwood or rocks. I've had mine for years with zero fuss.
Re: Plants for a Low-Tech Cube
Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2025 8:31 pm
by dawnlite
I'd recommend Cryptocoryne Wendtii. It's hardy and does well in low light. Just make sure your sand isn't too deep, or the roots might struggle. A root tab every few months helps.
Re: Plants for a Low-Tech Cube
Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2025 9:52 pm
by mintox
olivegrow wrote: ↑Sat Aug 16, 2025 6:40 pm
Anubias and Java Fern are solid choices, dude. They don't need much light and can just chill on driftwood or rocks. I've had mine for years with zero fuss.
Yep, those are classics. I'd add Bucephalandra to the list. It's slow-growing but super resilient, and the colors pop even under basic LEDs.
Re: Plants for a Low-Tech Cube
Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2025 10:33 pm
by Rustic
For a cube, consider mosses like Christmas or Java Moss. They're low-maintenance and can create a nice carpet or wall effect. Just tie them to mesh or driftwood.
Re: Plants for a Low-Tech Cube
Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2025 11:31 pm
by florish
Or you could just throw in some duckweed and call it a day. It's basically impossible to kill, though it might take over your tank if you're not careful. Good luck scraping it off later!
Re: Plants for a Low-Tech Cube
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 12:57 am
by shakinStevens
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I'll start with Anubias and Java Fern, maybe add some moss later. Appreciate the help.
Re: Plants for a Low-Tech Cube
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 2:17 am
by biteon
Don't forget about water wisteria. It grows like crazy even in low tech setups. Just trim it back when it gets too tall.
Re: Plants for a Low-Tech Cube
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 3:00 am
by Soapie
florish wrote: ↑Sat Aug 16, 2025 11:31 pm
Or you could just throw in some duckweed and call it a day. It's basically impossible to kill, though it might take over your tank if you're not careful. Good luck scraping it off later!
Duckweed's a nightmare if you ask me. Stick to the slower growers unless you wanna be scooping it out weekly.
Re: Plants for a Low-Tech Cube
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 4:24 am
by ripples
I've had great luck with Amazon Swords in my low-tech cube. They do need root tabs, but they're worth it for the lush look. Just give 'em space to spread out.