Introduction - first scape in 10 years

[Leadmewhereyoudare]

Hello all, lurking for a bit so figured I’d jump in and make my first post.

It’s been a very long time since I’ve started a new tank and definitely more of an amateur at scaping. As I’ve already finalized and flooded this for a dark start I thought it would be neat to get opinions on how you would plant it. The driftwood is hollow on the back and I’d intended to throw some stems in there as well.

As I’ve been collecting everything needed to get it going I thought i’d have tons more planting area than I’ve ended up with so I’m going to have to bring down my collectoritis list.
Ideally I want it so be low/mid growth rate so I’m not trimming stems every week.

It’s a UNS 90l so only 11.8 inches high. Using a cheaper Fzone rgb to start, at 50% getting 62 par at lowest and around 110 at mid tank. May run it around 60% to start.

I will be running co2 via dual stage reg and in line diffuser. APT 1/3, used “start” to kick cycle, and have “jazz” tabs to supplement as the the new substrate gives out. 80% of the soil is filter bagged old spent Ada Amazonia v1 that I shook the dust out of, topped with a fresh layer of Feast.

 

[Sb1415]

I think the hardscape looks great! I think the back of the drift wood could use more aquasoil or could fill the hollow with a mesh bag…. Maybe I don’t understand the driftwood that well with the views provided.

I am always interested in using sand but have been intimidated by the maintenance needed, so following to see how these come up.

Let us know what plants you are planning.

 

[BenB]

Welcome back. I rejoined the hobby just over a year ago myself. It has been quite a ride. I've never really tried to grow in aquasoil, and it has been a steep learning curve. Good luck!