Planted Aquarium Blogs
How to Set Up a Beautiful Non CO2 Planted Tank
1.Introduction To Non-CO2 Planted Tank
If you’re visualizing of a lush underwater garden but don’t want to deal with pressurized CO₂ systems, you’re not alone. The good news? You can absolutely grow a thriving planted aquarium without CO₂ injection. Known as non CO2 planted tanks or low-tech tanks, these setups are simpler, cost-effective, beginner-friendly, and — when done right — stunningly beautiful.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up a non CO2 planted tank from scratch using easy plants, affordable equipment, and science-backed tips. Whether you’re a newbie or looking to simplify your existing tank, this blog has you covered.
II. Choosing the Right Tank Size
Starting with a manageable tank size is key. We recommend:
- 10 to 20 gallons for beginners
- Provides stable parameters and enough space for a variety of plants
- Easier to light and maintain compared to nano tanks
Bonus: Smaller tanks can still be beautiful! Think of them as your personal desk-sized rainforest.
III. Selecting a Suitable Substrate
Even without CO₂, roots need a nutritious base. There are two great options for a non CO2 planted tank:
- Nutrient-Rich Substrate
Perfect for root feeders like Cryptocoryne or Vallisneria. Provides long-term nutrition but can be pricey.
- Inert Substrate + Liquid Fertilizer
Go with gravel or sand and dose with an all-in-one fertilizer like Complete Nourishment. Add root tabs if you’re planting deep-rooted species.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid clay-heavy or overly fine substrates that compact easily and suffocate roots.
IV. Picking the Right Plants for Non-CO₂ Tanks
Not all plants demand CO₂! The key is to choose slow-growing, low-light tolerant species for your non CO2 planted tank.
Here’s a go-to list of non-CO₂ aquarium plants:
- ✅ Anubias barteri / nana – hardy, attaches to rocks
- ✅ Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) – perfect for tying to driftwood
- ✅ Cryptocoryne wendtii – beautiful mid-ground plant
- ✅ Sagittaria subulata – fast-spreading carpet
- ✅ Java Moss – great for shrimp tanks and moss walls
- ✅ Vallisneria spiralis – excellent for the background
- ✅ Bacopa monnieri – easy stem plant with medicinal value
Need more inspiration? Check out our Comprehensive Guide to Aquatic Plants for more CO₂-free plant knowledge.
V. Lighting: Less is More
Light fuels photosynthesis, but too much light without CO₂ = algae explosion.
💡 Keep it Simple:
- Use low to medium-intensity LED lights
- Aim for 6–8 hours of light daily
- Use a timer for consistency
💡 We recommend clip-on LEDs or full-spectrum planted tank lights suited for low-tech setups.
VI. Nutrient Dosing: Your Plants Still Need Food
CO₂ or not, plants need macronutrients (NPK) and micronutrients (Fe, Mg, B, etc.).
✅ Must-Have Fertilizers for Non-CO₂ Aquariums:
- Optimum Nourishment – Balanced macro + micro formula
- Liquid Carbon – CO₂ alternative that boosts growth and suppresses algae
- Iron Plus – For red plants and preventing iron deficiency
- Trace Plus – Keeps micronutrients balanced
For easy setup, consider All-in-One Fertilizer Kits.
VII. Gentle Filtration and Flow
Non CO2 planted tank don’t need strong currents. Choose:
- Sponge filters for nano tanks
- Hang-on-back (HOB) filters with gentle flow
- Avoid strong canisters or wave makers
Aim for even water circulation without uprooting plants.
VIII. Choosing Fish & Shrimp Wisely
Add fish that are plant-safe and low waste producers:
- 🐟 Guppies, Rasboras, Tetras, or Dwarf Gouramis
- 🦐 Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp
- 🐌 Nerite Snails, Mystery Snails
Fish waste contributes nutrients, completing the natural cycle.
IX. Regular Maintenance Routine
Keeping a beautiful tank running is easier than you think:
- 🔁 Weekly 25–30% water changes
- ✂️ Trim plants as needed to prevent overgrowth
- 💧 Top off evaporated water with dechlorinated water
X. Dealing with Algae
Algae is common in low-tech tanks but manageable:
- Avoid overfeeding or overlighting
- Add algae remover as a preventive algae treatment
- Use algae-eating shrimp and snails
- Maintain a regular dosing schedule with balanced nutrients
XI. Final Tips for Long-Term Success
- Start simple — no need to overcomplicate with gadgets
- Watch your plants — new growth is the best sign of success
- Experiment with plant placements and hardscape for a unique look
- Keep a weekly routine — stability is key in planted tanks
In Summary: You Can Grow Beautifully Without CO₂
A non-CO₂ planted aquarium is not only achievable but rewarding. With the right lighting, plant choices, nutrients, and a bit of care, your underwater jungle will thrive naturally.
And remember — you don’t need fancy gear to grow green.
You just need a little guidance… and the right nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :
What is a non CO2 planted tank?
A non CO₂ planted tank is an aquarium setup where plants grow without pressurized CO₂
injection. It relies on natural CO₂ from fish respiration and surface gas exchange, making it
low-maintenance and beginner-friendly.
Can plants grow well in a non CO2 planted tank?
Yes, many aquatic plants thrive in a non CO₂ planted tank, especially low-light and slow-growing
species like Anubias, Java Fern, Cryptocoryne, and Java Moss.
What are the best plants for a non CO2 planted tank?
Top plant choices include:
● Anubias nana
● Java Fern
● Crypt wendtii
● Vallisneria spiralis
● Bacopa monnieri
These plants are hardy, low-demand, and perfect for a non CO₂ planted tank.
Do I need fertilizer in a non CO2 planted tank?
Absolutely. Even without CO₂, plants need nutrients to grow. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer like
Optimum Nourishment or Complete Nourishment from Aquatrition.
What kind of lighting is best for a non CO2 planted tank?
Use low to medium intensity LED lighting for 6–8 hours daily. Full-spectrum planted tank lights
are ideal, but avoid high-intensity setups that can trigger algae in low-tech aquariums.
Can I use a soil substrate in a non CO2 planted tank?
Yes. Nutrient-rich substrates like aquasoil can support root growth. Alternatively, use inert gravel
with root tabs and supplement with liquid fertilizers for great results.
How often should I dose nutrients in a non CO2 planted tank?
For a stable low-tech setup, dose 2–3 times per week with water changes once a week.
Products like Trace Plus and Liquid Carbon are excellent additions.
Will fish and shrimp be safe in a non CO2 planted tank?
Yes! In fact, fish waste helps fertilize the plants. Popular choices include guppies, rasboras,
cherry shrimp, and Amano shrimp — all of which thrive in non CO₂ tanks.
Can I prevent algae in a non CO2 planted tank?
Yes. Algae can be controlled by maintaining balanced lighting, proper nutrient dosing, and
adding algae eaters like nerite snails or shrimp. Liquid Carbon also helps suppress algae growth
naturally.
Is a non CO2 planted tank good for beginners?
Definitely! A non CO₂ planted tank is ideal for beginners due to its simplicity, lower cost, and low
maintenance. It allows you to enjoy live plants without the complexity of pressurized CO₂
systems.
