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By Alfa Low, aquascaper. 2nd place, 2019 aquascaping competition (event name to confirm) · 2023 entry (result to confirm).

Starting your first planted tank: Start with a 30–45 cm tank, aqua soil, easy plants (anubias, Bucephalandra, crypts, mosses), a filter running from day one, and cycle for 4–6 weeks before adding livestock.
Low-tech vs high-tech: Low-tech means no injected CO₂ and slower, easier growth; high-tech adds CO₂, stronger light and fertiliser for faster growth and carpets, with less room for error.
Choosing the right aquatic plants: Pick plants by placement (foreground, midground, background), then match their light and CO₂ needs to your setup; in Singapore favour plants that tolerate 28–30 °C.
Understanding CO₂: CO₂ is optional: many easy plants grow fine without it, but injected CO₂ speeds growth and helps carpets when light and nutrients are balanced.
Preventing algae: Algae usually means too much light for the CO₂ and nutrients available; shorten the photoperiod, keep up water changes and add fast-growing plants early.
Maintaining a healthy aquascape: Weekly: change 30–50% of the water, clean the glass, trim plants and top up evaporation; rinse filter media in tank water, not tap water.