Independent buying guides for planted aquariums

Planted Tank Lighting

Lighting drives plant growth and the look of the scape. LED fixtures with timers let you control intensity, colour and photoperiod to balance growth against algae.

Two bright goldfish swimming gracefully in a richly planted aquarium
Photo: Stefan Maritz on Pexels

How to choose

  • Match light intensity to your plants' needs.
  • Put lights on a timer for consistent days.
  • Start with 6-8 hours of light on new tanks.
  • Check PAR ratings for demanding carpeting plants.

Common questions

How long should planted tank lights be on?

About 6-8 hours per day is a common range. Longer periods often cause algae unless CO2 and nutrients are well balanced.

Can too much light cause algae?

Yes. Strong light without enough CO2, nutrients and plant mass is one of the most common causes of algae.