The very first botanical method aquarium you set up will radically change your perception of what it means to keep an aquarium, and don't worry, you don't need to know everything before you begin. My #1 tip for the beginner botanical method aquarist is patience. Layer in new botanicals gradually, observe how your fish respond, and let your ecosystem evolve. Our blog and newsletter are filled with practical guides, preparation tips, and new product releases to help you build your first thriving Blackwater, Biotope, or Botanical Method Aquarium.

Building your first botanical aquarium may seem overwhelming—it was for me! That’s why we created the Beginners Collection featuring handpicked botanicals that are easy to use, safe for sensitive species, and impactful in small doses. Start with Magnolia Leaves and Bamboo Leaves—they break down slowly, offer shelter, and release a steady dose of tannin. Add Alder Cones for a darker “tint boost” and natural antifungal support, or pick our #TanninBae Variety Pack curated specifically for new hobbyists. When its time to refresh your tint, drop in a Betta Tea bag, our blackwater botanical tea bags.

Think of preparation as the link between nature and your aquarium. While each botanical we offer is safe for aquarium and bioactive enclosure use, proper prep ensures a smooth transition from the forest floor to the aquatic ecosystem. It helps remove potential surface contaminants, kickstarts waterlogging, and preserves water quality.

Our “Rinse. Boil. Drain & Strain. Soak.” methods are simple: rinse under tap water, boil for 5–10 minutes, drain, and soak in dechlorinated water. That’s it. This process rehydrates the botanicals to help them sink, establishing your ecosystem quicker.

Not sure how it looks in practice? Watch the Preparation Video to follow each step visually, and explore how proper prep sets the foundation for ecosystem stability. When in doubt—start slow, observe your tank, and let nature guide the rest.

As an expert aquarist, your role in the botanical method movement is twofold: 1) Inspire and guide the next wave of ecosystem builders, and 2) Remain a student of nature—always experimenting, always learning. The most compelling tanks tell stories, challenge assumptions, and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

At Betta Botanicals, we work with a global network of trusted suppliers to source Region, Habitat and Niche-specific botanicals, many of which are unavailable anywhere else. Our Fresh From The Forest batches are ideal for biotope competitions, niche habitat recreations, and ecological dioramas where precision and source location matter.

We invite you to collaborate:

If you’re working on a biotope project, need help sourcing materials by region, or want to share your methods in a guest blog, get in touch. You can sort our products by biotope, tint, and durability to tailor your selections to the ecological story you’re telling.