dutch style aquascape:help needed

[crazzyarch]

Hi,
Im planning for a dutch style setup in a 4' tank and need some info regarding the same.
I have searched the internet but there isnt much info out there...i.e. its very brief and not detailed.
Some elaborate info on the topic would be helpful.
Looking forward to your replies.
Regards.

 

[JasonG75]

Dutch aquariums are an older style of aquascaping, dating back to early 20th century Holland. The style focuses on neat rows of plants radiating out from a central focal point, with lower plants in front and taller plants in the back (creating depth). You'll often see this described as "streets" or "avenues" using plants.
Dutch aquascapes also feature more colorful aquatic plants. They can be likened to a well kept garden, where all the plants are arranged with a purpose and kept well trimmed and defined. It may not be the most natural looking, but it is extremely beautiful and visually interesting. A significant hardscape (rock and/or driftwood) is usually not present or visible. Color, contrast, and the beauty of the individual plants is paramount.

also search Dutch Style aquascaping, or even German Tanks

ALSO this is very hard to do in a tank with Fish present. once roots take hole then they can be added

 

[crazzyarch]

Hi jason,
Thank u for ur help, i have searched a lot in the internet but as i said, all the info is brief.
BTW is german style aquascaping similar to dutch, when i searched for german tanks all i found was panzer tanks
Neways if u find a good link plz share it.

 

[octavusprime]

What exactly do you want to know about dutch aquascaping?

From my limited research the tanks are highly planted and as such have high nutrient, light and C02 requirements. As to the layout many plants but often not more than 12 species are used. Larger plants are placed in the back and similar shaped and/or colored plants are not put side by side. The "golden rule" of aquascaping is still applied and is often done with a very unique and often bold colored plant (usually deep red).

Different plants grow at different rates and pruning techniques are used to shape the tank. The shape is up to you. Ive seen very rounded scapes and others that seem more natural. The back plants should not create a uniform wall as this is unappealling to the eye. I would look at pictures and find one that you enjoy. Try to find out what plants are used and try to mimic it. Through that process you will learn and adjust to make it work for you. I am constantly re-adjusting my scape.

Here are a few scapes I really like in the Dutch style with some commentary on how they are made with some diagrams of what is in the tank. Enjoy!

http://www.aquascapingworld.com/for...ascape-month-july-2008-silence-ca-pousse.html

http://www.aquascapingworld.com/forum/aquascape-month/1671-aquascape-month-march-2009-patchwork.html

http://www.blueaquarium.org/2009/02/first-posted-planted-tank-by-shay-fertig/