There are many books on the topic of planted aquariums and aquascaping. Here are a few that we have found particularly useful from the hydrophytes.ca team.
Ecology of the Planted Aquarium: A Practical Manual and Scientific Treatise
Diana Walstad, 2023
From Amazon: https://amzn.to/4a3o6CA
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the science behind planted aquariums. It covers the basics of aquatic plant biology, the nitrogen cycle, and the role of bacteria in the aquarium. It also provides practical advice on setting up and maintaining a planted aquarium. Her focus is on low-tech, natural aquariums that rely on the plants to filter the water and provide a healthy environment for fish. This means no CO2 injection, no fertilizers, and no high-intensity lighting. The techniques in this book create a beautiful, self-sustaining ecosystems that requires minimal maintenance. If one has mastered Diana Walstad’s techniques, then they will have absolutely no problems with high-tech aquariums, and allow plants to thrive in any environment.
There is a lot of technical information in this book, including chemical formulas and scientific jargon. However, the author does a good job of explaining complex concepts in simple terms, making it accessible to beginners and experts alike. If the detailed science is beyond your interest, you can skip those sections and still get a lot of value and practical experience from the book.
Aquascaping: A Step-by-Step Guide to Planting, Styling, and Maintaining Beautiful Aquariums
George Farmer, 2020
From Amazon: https://amzn.to/40d7fZy
This book is a great resource for aquascaping enthusiasts who want to learn more about balancing aesthetics and plant health. It covers the basics of aquascaping, including choosing the right plants and hardscape materials, creating a layout, and maintaining a healthy aquarium.
The author provides step-by-step instructions for setting up a planted aquarium, from choosing the right substrate to adding fish and other livestock. The book is filled with beautiful photographs of aquascapes, making it a great source of inspiration for your own projects.
Encyclopedia of Aquarium Plants
Peter Hiscock, 2023
From Amazon: https://amzn.to/4j6Vdtz
The enclopedia of aquarium plants is a comprehensive guide to the identification and care of over 200 species of aquatic plants. It covers a wide range of topics, including plant anatomy, growth requirements, and propagation techniques. The book is organized by plant family, making it easy to find information on specific species. Each entry includes a detailed description of the plant, as well as tips on how to grow and maintain it in your aquarium. The book also includes a glossary of botanical terms, making it a valuable reference for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. It is very useful for aquascapers looking for the perfect plant to complete their aquascape.