| When it comes to a well maintained lawn or yard, the way it's landscaped makes a lasting impression. The same goes for an aquascape. The foreground is typically the first thing one sees when they see a planted tank and this create a first impression. The foreground gives that first layer of aesthetics and when done right, the rest of the tank flows together and creates a sense of serenity. Foreground plants don't have to be hard to maintain. There are options out there for those who don't want to get their hands wet too often and for those looking for a more challenging plant that requires a frequent nutrient, lighting and CO2 regimen.
Low-Tech Foreground Plant Options There's a misnomer that foreground plants all require CO2 + strong lighting. That is not the case as there are many low-light, low maintenance options in the hobby.
Pearl Weed, Tripartita, Staurogyne Repens, Dwarf Hair Grass, just to name few, are great options and don't require the high light and CO2 to achieve an aesthetically appealing carpeting effect.
High-Tech Advanced Foreground Plant Options High-tech foreground plants are indeed what it sounds like; a bit more tedious when it comes to dosing regimens, ample levels of CO2 plus high lighting. Though we typically don't recommend jumping right into high maintenance foreground plants right off the bat, if you are up for the challenge, it's fulfilling once you've got the plants growing and in balance with photosynthesis. Upkeep such as trimming and reproprogation may be necessary after some time.
Dwarf Baby Tears (H.C.), Glosso, Posgostemon Helferi (Downoi), Monte Carlo (though considered 'medium' tech, it thrives better in a high tech setting).
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