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Plants for a Nano Cube Tank
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 3:29 pm
by aurorin
I'm setting up a 5-gallon nano cube and wanna keep it low-tech. What plants would y'all recommend that won't outgrow the space too fast? I've got a basic LED light and no CO2.
Re: Plants for a Nano Cube Tank
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 3:49 pm
by angelic
Anubias Nana and Java Moss are solid choices for low-tech nano tanks. They grow slowly and don't need much light. Attach them to driftwood or rocks for a natural look. Just avoid burying the Anubias rhizome.
Re: Plants for a Nano Cube Tank
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 4:59 pm
by florabug
I've had luck with Cryptocoryne Wendtii in my nano. It stays compact and adds nice color. Just watch the melt when you first plant it, but it bounces back. Also, Marimo balls are chill and low-maintenance.
Re: Plants for a Nano Cube Tank
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 6:16 pm
by dolphyno
angelic wrote: ↑Wed Jun 25, 2025 3:49 pm
Anubias Nana and Java Moss are solid choices for low-tech nano tanks. They grow slowly and don't need much light. Attach them to driftwood or rocks for a natural look. Just avoid burying the Anubias rhizome.
Yep, second this. I glued my Anubias to a small piece of wood and it's been thriving. Java Moss is kinda messy though, so trim it regularly.
Re: Plants for a Nano Cube Tank
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 7:49 pm
by finch
Don't forget about Bucephalandra! It's pricier but stays small and has killer colors. Just don't blast it with light or it'll get algae. My shrimp love hiding in it.
Re: Plants for a Nano Cube Tank
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 8:04 pm
by tender
What about substrate? I've got sand but heard some plants need dirt. Gonna try root tabs but not sure if that's enough.
Re: Plants for a Nano Cube Tank
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 9:02 pm
by aurorin
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone! I'll start with Anubias and Java Moss and maybe add some Buce later. Gonna skip the Crypts for now since I'm not ready for the melt phase.
Re: Plants for a Nano Cube Tank
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 9:31 pm
by angelic
tender wrote: ↑Wed Jun 25, 2025 8:04 pm
What about substrate? I've got sand but heard some plants need dirt. Gonna try root tabs but not sure if that's enough.
Root tabs work fine for slow-growers like Anubias and Java Fern. Just push them deep so they don't leach into the water column. Dirt's overkill for a nano, IMO.
Re: Plants for a Nano Cube Tank
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 10:09 pm
by florabug
If you're worried about melt, try Dwarf Sagittaria. It's hardy and spreads slow in low tech. Plus, it looks like grass, which is a vibe.
Re: Plants for a Nano Cube Tank
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 11:35 pm
by dolphyno
Yeah, Dwarf Sag is a good call. Just don't let it take over. My 5-gallon turned into a jungle because I didn't trim it enough. Had to rescape the whole thing.