It takes me a LONG time to figure out what I like sometimes. I'm still not happy with the layout but I know what plants I like now, somewhat. Finally set up the DIY CO2 but want a different diffuser. I neglected my tank so many leaves are dying but I had a great excuse: international travel. :) I'm still going on another vacation soon so my plants may still suffer again but we'll see. I think the DIY CO2 will help and I will dote on my plants while I'm here to get them up to speed before I leave again. Overall, this is not a typical hobby for me since I am usually outside running,hiking,driving,traveling, socializing etc. I'm trying to do better. Hicks' fin rot has stopped but he will never regain his former glory, which, isn't an issue because I'm just happy that HE's happy. The ghost shrimp are still alive! I can't believe it but they are molting on a regular basis and jussst fine. I'd like to get a bigger tank but California is in the middle of a crazy drought and I feel guilty enough having this small 5-gallon. Extras: I use liquid macro/micro nutrients as well as Seachem Equilibrium. With such a tiny bioload and so many plants, I have to add nutrients 2-3 times a week. The plants soak up all of the nitrogen in a few days! (which caused deficiencies early on and while I was gone) Also, my plants began to curl, which is a sign ( I read) of calcium deficiency. So I upped the KH. All in all, swords are nutrient hogs. I could probably stand to get some additional Iron supplements but I am using Flourish Comprehensive which should be fine. **Finally, one day, I'll upgrade to a bigger tank(maybe) and get proper substrate plus pressurized CO2. right now, this is Lovely. :)**