Scape Lab DIY Kit Guide

Thank You for Choosing Our Scape Lab DIY Kit!

This guide will help you set up your Aquascape and provide essential tips for maintaining a balanced tank. With proper care, your tank will flourish into a thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem.

 

What’s Inside Your Kit:

  • Nano Tank
  • Aquasoil
  • Sand
  • Live Plants
  • Water Conditioner
  • Liquid Fertiliser
  • LED Light
  • Root Tabs
  • Rocks
  • Wood
  • Tweezers

Before You Begin:

1. Choose the Right Spot:

  • Select a location with stable temperature and indirect light.
  • Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause algae overgrowth.

2. Gather Tools:

  • Small cup or container
  • Scissors (for trimming plants)
  • Soft cloth (for cleaning the tank)

Tip: If not planting immediately, store live plants in a cool place or float them in water. For best results, plant them within 3 days.

Creating Your Nano Aquascape

1. Plan Your Hardscape:

  • Experiment with the rocks and wood to find your desired layout.
  • Wood takes 1–2 weeks to become waterlogged. Wedge it between rocks or secure it using cotton wool and superglue (instructions below).

Tip: Create depth by arranging elements into foreground, midground, and background layers. Cylinder tanks magnify central areas and diminish edges, so design with this effect in mind.

2. Add the Aquasoil:

  • Layer the aquasoil into the tank.

Tip: Slope the soil higher at the back to create depth and visual interest.

    3. Position the Hardscape:

    • Arrange rocks and wood in your desired layout.
    • Build up aquasoil around rocks to stabilise them using tweezers or a small brush.
    • Wedge wood underneath or between rocks to stop it from floating.
    • Alternatively, To glue wood to a rock:
      • Place a small piece of cotton wool between the wood and rock where they make contact.
      • Apply superglue until the cotton is soaked and bonds to both surfaces.
      • Tip: Glue areas out of view or where plants will later grow to hide visible glue marks.

    4. Add Sand:

    • Gently spread sand over areas you wish to cover.

    5. Plant the Live Plants:

    • Add Root tabs to were you are planning to plant your rooting plants.
    • Use the tweezers to push the Root tabs deep into the substrate.
    • Rinse plants gently.
    • Cut the bottom 1cm off stem plants. You can also cut stem plants in half to add more volume to your tank.
    • Use tweezers to plant roots into the substrate. Place taller plants at the back and shorter ones in front.
    • Ensure roots/stems are buried at least 3 cm deep.
    Tip:  Wiggle the tweezers into the substrate while holding the plant stem for precise placement.

      6. Fill the Tank with Water:

      • Prepare 10 litres of tap water, adding 5 drops of water conditioner (1 Drop per 2Litres). Let it sit for 15 minutes.
      • Place a small piece of bubble wrap or paper towel on the substrate to prevent disturbance. Pour water gently over this layer.
      • Fill the tank slowly, leaving a few centimetres of space at the top. Remove the bubble wrap once done.
      • Add 3 x Droppers of liquid fertiliser to the water.



      7. Install the LED Light:

      • Attach the light and set it to run 6–8 hours daily for optimal plant growth.

      Aftercare Guide

      1. Water Changes:

      • Perform 50% weekly water changes for the first 6 weeks.
      • Prepare 5 litres of conditioned water as before.
      • Use a siphon or cup to remove water, and add new water slowly over bubble wrap to avoid disturbing the substrate.
      • Add 3 drops of liquid fertiliser after each water change.

      2. Plant Care:

      • Trim dead or overgrown leaves regularly.
      • Prune plants to maintain the desired look, whether minimal or jungle-like.

      3. Monitor Water Quality:

      • Check for cloudiness, odours, or signs of imbalance. Adjust care as needed.

      4. Manage Algae:

      • If algae grows, reduce light exposure and consider adding algae-eating snails.
      • Clean algae from glass with an aquarium-safe sponge.

      Troubleshooting:

      • Cloudy Water: Normal in new tanks; clears within days.
      • Wilting Plants: May need more light or nutrients. Adjust accordingly.
      • Excess Algae: Reduce light duration and perform partial water changes.

      Important Tips:

      • Patience is key! It can take weeks for the ecosystem to stabilise.
      • Avoid chemical additives; rely on natural methods.
      • Consult an aquarium specialist before adding fish or other aquatic life.

      We hope you enjoy your NANO No-Filter Tank DIY Kit! With care and creativity, your tank will thrive and become a living work of art. For questions or support, contact us at scapelab.gc@gmail.com

      Happy Aquascaping!