Do I need expensive lights for aquarium plants?

No. Many easy-care plants (Java fern, Anubias, Java moss, Amazon swords) grow well under budget LED lights with moderate output. Expensive lights are necessary for demanding carpeting plants and red-coloring plants that need high PAR. Start with easy plants and a budget light — upgrade only if you want to grow more demanding species.

Why are my aquarium plants turning brown?

Common causes: insufficient light (increase duration or upgrade to higher PAR), nutrient deficiency (add root tabs or liquid fertilizer), new tank syndrome (plants need time to adapt after being transplanted), or excess algae coating leaves (reduce photoperiod and add algae-eating shrimp or snails). Brown leaves on new plants are often normal — new growth will be green and healthy.

Best Aquarium Lights 2026