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Frequently Asked Questions | Horizon Aquatics
Frequently Asked Questions | Horizon Aquatics
General Aquascaping
What is aquascaping?
Aquascaping is the art of designing and arranging aquatic plants, rocks, and wood within an aquarium to create an aesthetically pleasing underwater landscape.
Is aquascaping difficult for beginners?
Not at all! Start with low-maintenance plants, a simple layout, and learn as you go. Check out many of our helpful videos on our Horizon Aquatics YouTube channel or browse through our in-depth blogs.
Aquatic Plants
Which aquatic plants are best for beginners?
Easy-to-care-for plants include Anubias, Java Fern, and Cryptocoryne. These species thrive in low light and require minimal CO₂, making them ideal for beginners. Most plant manufacturers classify plants as Easy, Medium, or Advanced—a helpful guide to their care requirements. If you're just starting out and don’t have CO₂ injection or high-intensity lighting, sticking with Easy plants is usually the best choice.
How do I prevent my aquatic plants from dying?
Healthy aquatic plants need the right balance of light, nutrients, and CO₂. Use appropriate lighting for your plant type, ensure you have a nutrient-rich substrate or add root tabs, and consider using liquid fertilizers. Some plants also benefit from CO₂ injection. Regular water changes and trimming dead leaves help maintain overall plant health. Start with hardy species if you’re new to aquascaping.
Do all aquatic plants need CO₂ injection?
No, but CO₂ can significantly improve plant growth and colouration. Some hardy plants can still thrive without it.
Aquarium Setup & Maintenance
What’s the best substrate for planted tanks?
The best substrate for planted aquariums is a nutrient-rich aqua soil. It provides essential minerals for root-feeding plants and helps maintain stable water parameters. You can also combine it with inert gravel or sand and add root tabs to support plant growth, especially if you're not using CO₂.
How often should I change the water?
Most planted tanks benefit from a weekly water change of 30–50%. This helps remove excess nutrients and waste, keeps algae under control, and maintains good water quality. Tanks with higher plant or fish loads may require more frequent changes.
How do I clean my tank without harming plants or fish?
Use a gentle approach—siphon debris from the substrate during water changes without disturbing plant roots. Wipe algae from the glass with a soft sponge or algae magnet. Avoid using chemicals, and always match the temperature and dechlorinate new water before adding it back to the tank.
CO₂ Systems & Lighting
Do I need a CO₂ system for my planted aquarium?
It depends on the plant species and your desired growth rate. High-tech aquascapes always benefit from CO₂ injection.
How long should I leave the aquarium light on each day?
6–8 hours is ideal to avoid algae overgrowth and support healthy plant growth.
Ordering & Shipping
Do you ship live plants?
Yes, we package our live plants carefully to ensure they arrive healthy and fresh.
How long will my order take to arrive?
We have many delivery options from next day delivery and also weekend options for delivery on Saturday or Sunday.
Do you offer in-store collection?
Yes, you can pick your order up in store. Just select 'Pick up in store' when checking out. If the item is in stock, you can collect it the same day. For pre-order items, such as large aquariums or cabinets, we’ll contact you when it's ready to collect.
Can I track my order?
Yes! We use DPD for deliveries. Once your order is booked, and if you’ve provided an email or mobile number, you’ll receive a tracking link to follow your parcel’s progress. For pallet deliveries, tracking may be available depending on the courier. If so, we’ll share the details with you. Since pallets are arranged in advance, you should already have a general idea of the delivery time.
Do you ship live shrimp?
Yes, we ship live shrimp, but only on Mondays. They are sent via Royal Mail with a next-working-day, pre-noon delivery, so you’ll have a good idea of when to expect them.
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes, we offer E-Gift Cards! You can purchase them online, and a unique gift card code will be emailed to you or your chosen recipient. To redeem, simply select "Gift Card" at checkout and enter the code. If an order paid with a gift card is refunded, the amount will be returned to the same gift card.
What is your returns policy on orders?
We accept returns within 14 days of purchase. Items must be unused and returned to us in their original packaging. To start a return, please contact our customer service team for instructions. Refunds will be processed once we receive and inspect the returned item. There is no allowance for returns on live plants and livestock unless they arrive perished.
Local & In-Store Questions
Do you have a retail store I can visit?
Yes! Visit our aquascaping showroom in the UK – Newton Aycliffe. Come see our display tanks in action. We're just off the A1 for easy driving and also have great train links, even a nearby airport!
Do you offer aquascaping services or consultations?
We offer in-store service to help you create your dream aquascape. We also work closely with Geordie Scaper, who provides a home aquascaping service.