The Simplest Planted Aquarium With Diana Walstad

[@monikaruwaimana123]

The woman The myth The legend

[@masonmax1000]

the walstad

[@zacharykunzer2823]

This lady is so humble it’s killing my face with smiles 🥹 what a legend!

[@vinniediego]

Ikr!

[@soniacalegari4157]

​@@vinniediego,

[@LeeDfined]

I got back in the Hobby way back in 2015 and experimented with a Walstad method fish bowl. It had an Anubias, A banana plant and tons of Narrowleaf Anacharis. I only put in two White Cloud minnows...and before I knew it my tank had snails(which I didn't buy), the Banana plant produced floating Lily Pads, the White Clouds would not stop breeding and there were microscopic worms. And I still follow this method to this day in my aquariums. But nothing was as magical as my first fish bowl in which I used this method.

[@IM-rn7ik]

life finds a way my friend.

[@fredk4136]

A lot of people on KZbin talk and show the walstad method but seeing her in person on a video is a different experience Thanks for having her on your channel

[@Mockthenerd]

I didn't know she was a real person.

[@vEGan1909]

@@Mockthenerd😂

[@fishermansfriend5145]

100% she is a genuine hobbiest. A Pioneer!

[@jordynjones855]

“It’s fine don’t worry about it“ I love Diana she’s awesome

[@robweis9]

The OG Dirty Diana ❤️ PhD Thank you KG Tropicals for reintroducing us to this legend in this way. Huge day for the hobby.

[@anodyne.7024]

Thank you! As a female aquarist and scientist, it is just plain wonderful to see this content.

[@kg4wwn]

Walstad purists online: you must do this in an exact way, no filter, use one of these two brands of potting soil, etc. Diana Walstad: Bigger tanks will have a filter and you can use any potting soil etc.

[@lemonlizard1]

in her book she's very simple about all the stuff regarding setting up the tank. Any potting soil will do, most plants will do, most lights will do, etc. There is, of course, a load of information leading up to the "setting your own tank" chapter that helps you understand the 'why,' but really it's not as strict as it's made out to be

[@Theseus294]

@liquidlar nailed it

[@JTCT371]

If you have a basic understanding of how a tank cycles, there's no right or wrong way. Never stop doing research, never think you know it all (purists tend to be ignorant to anything they don't quite understand), and have fun learning as you go. Keep records of parameters (especially in the beginning) and be ready to deal with issues at a moments notice. (Moreso in the beginning of a tanks life).......that being said, there are many ways people set up tanks and find success in their way of doing it. That is what is great about this hobby....options!

[@chrisrusso4512]

Except big tanks don’t need filters

[@JTCT371]

@@lemonlizard1 there are many ways people find success with fish keeping....thats what is great about it, 2 different folks with 2 different visions can have the same success....most things can be tweaked in this hobby.....

[@missesraisin]

Diana is so comfortable with herself, enjoyed her personality and tutelage!

[@jacklandismusic]

This is how it’s done! She’s written and revised a book that every experienced aquarist knows and loves, but she still experiments and tries new things like any hobbyist. I never would’ve thought to use a reptile heating pad, but that’s a great way to adapt to heat such a small bowl.

[@michaelwebster3124]

This is the kind of advertising that really works. I didnt start the day with a burning desire to buy Walstad's book but I sure am ending the day with a new addition to my books to buy list.

[@PaulZyCZ]

A video I'd recommend to all beginners to watch. Diana Walstad is a legend! When I had my first aquarium in the 90s, all books were against adding soil to aquariums and LFS didn't have any "aquarium soil" and such (while some of the experienced hobbyists knew better).

[@will9357]

My grandmother got me into the aquarium hobby as a kid (in the '80s and '90s), and it seems that nearly everything I learned from reading books in those days was bad advice. My grandmother's advice was usually better, but most of the books had photos of aquariums that looked even better than hers did and I thought I was taking advice from the pros... but as an adult, I realize that I was taking advice from the salesmen. 😒

[@cherylmartin9994]

I'm am so in awe of Diana Walstad. You guys are amazing for having her on your channel. My betta guru (Lisa) and Diana in one video = great Sunday morning❤️Lisa the joy on your face is adorable!

[@katymoss8557]

I had a walstad bowl for two years until one of my wolf hybrids knocked it over and broke it. That thing was amazing the only thing I ever did to it was top it off with water. After watching this I’m going to start another one.

[@jaynine]

I've watched Diana Walstad in videos taken in different decades. She is just an incredibly nice, unassuming, enthusiastic person.

[@jmoon4686]

Diana is huge in this industry! So glad she is here doing this video with Lisa.

[@pkendlers]

I breed guppies, endlers and Staecks and like Ms. Walstead, I do small planted bowls my desk. My method is slighty different but it is wonderful to see hers. I am doing workshops soon in my area to teach natural fish keeping. We need to "get out there": and show people how easy & cheap this hobby can be, especially in these tough economic times. The aquarium hobby is not just about huge tanks, filters, lights, skimmers, fluorescently, glowing gravel and tank decorations. Decorations. It can be cheap and beautiful and easy! It is for everyone (even young children, with parental caretaking until they can do it on their own. That's how I learned).

[@jerfle7787]

My aunt bred neon tetras when I was a kid. Sold to a LFS. Me being a hyperactive kid, watching them calmed my mind. For hours! I always wanted fish as I grew up but never had the funds or knowledge to be a fish keeper. I am 46 now and have kept planted tanks since I was 29. I prefer the Walstad method. Aquarium setups grow longer.

[@BasicAquariums]

I have known about the Walstad method for a while but watching Diana Walstad herself explaining things is very motivating to start a Walstad bowl.

[@Nutamago]

I'd like to say many thanks to Miss Diana Walstad for the awesome book and This channel for bringing her on the tube. I read it thoroughly and it made huge impact on how I built my planted aquarium since the 2020 pandemic. she's the best!

[@delaineld7766]

found a 5 gallon cylinder vase at a thrift store for $4. Nice thick glass. I guess I'll be doing a Walstad shrimp tank at work now.

[@AlextheguitarFreak]

Thank you for having Dianna Walstad on the channel. She seems like a down to earth person. I could tell that being on camera is not her idea of a good time, so props to you for making it happen and helping her feel comfortable. I could also tell that there's a lot more information that she could have shared, but i think humility or shyness may have held her back. I just started a dirted tank of my own, i shoukd probably read her book 🤔

[@leecorrigan8394]

It's really awesome that you guys got Ms. Walstad to come on and explain her method, it'd be really cool if you could get her to do another video where she sets up a larger 55 gallon. Great information here for sure 👍

[@RKDivaDP]

What a great guess. I loved her simple approach to a very complex craft.

[@TW_Chizm]

I’m so glad that after all my years in the hobby I’ve found the Walstad/Father Fish/LRB method of keeping naturally balanced fish tanks and creating these little self sufficient ecosystems. It’s so rewarding and satisfying and peaceful having a little slice of nature in your home and FEELING that connection to life 🙏

[@alexisayirebi-acquah5730]

This was one of your best videos yet. Thanks so much guys.

[@johngonzalez7967]

Wow, one of the most important people in the hobby’s history. Great get.

[@Evil_Genius_888]

I’ve never really been interested in “dirted” tanks, or over grown tanks, but after watching this I might have to give one of these shrimp bowls a try.

[@juliazuskey]

It is amazing how versatile the Walstad method is and how well the plants grow in the aquarium! Diana Walstad’s book explains this method very well. I’m happy there is a 4th edition now! ❤

[@tgmx2010]

Such a great lady and aquarist! I followed her method, and since November 2020 my little 3.5 gallon still doing great with just one Honey Gourami, Cherry Shrimp, and a Nerite. Thank you for having her!

[@eddiegyt5978]

this is a legend that her methode wide recognized even in my southeast asia country, hats off

[@ryandodrill6904]

I know I’m late to the party but just wanted to say I did my very first tank as a 10 gallon using this method and I love it. I had some learning to do and still am but it worked and I loved it. I’m using this method for all my tanks.

[@amym.4823]

I'm getting ready to redo my 40 gallon breeder, and I'm planning on putting some plants in terra cotta pots to achieve height. With my leftover potting mix, I'm totally going to make a Walstad shrimp bowl. It's so great to see someone who really gets the excitement of watching a tiny ecosystem grow and change. Diana Walstad reminds us all why the aquarium hobby is one you can learn from your whole life.

[@RafaelSwit]

I was stoked to pick up this newest edition of the book from Diana at Carolina Aquarium Workshop back in March 📖❤️ It’s always a pleasure to chat with her 😊

[@hansnorleaf]

Thank you so much for this video KG. Amazing to 'meet' the woman behind the method making having a fishtank simple and fun at the same time.

[@reginaphalanges7331]

The bowls are really beautiful!!! Diana is amazing!❤

[@cherylbelott]

I really enjoyed this video!!! I’ve applied her method in several of my aquariums including some bowls. I picked up a few new things during this video - such as not needing to sift the soil, removing larger bits of matter before use. (Which I never did anyway…glad to know it is a good thing.) It was fun to see the demonstration too! 🌱 🦐 Now I want to do another bowl!! 😍😃

[@chelmsford6774]

I've watched many aquarium shows but this one was in the top three, thank you all very much.

[@kinglyzard]

Its so good to get this information directly from the source herself. I have been following Father Fish's videos and have converted two 10g tanks into deep substrate tanks. Id love to see a video on larger tanks.

[@qazqazqazqaz100]

Super happy you guys made a video on this method. I gave it a try and she is right at first there is alot of bacteria problems, sick fish, and green water can happen. With Alot of the time, plants and time will solve all this then the thing will last for ever it seems and the fish will do better than a filtered clean tank. Don't be afrade to get plants from your local ponds and waterways. Don't be afrade to introduce stuff to the tank. it can be good to get different bacteria in there to not alow a super bug to form. Don't go crazy though.

[@Griimnak]

Nature is awesome. Cheers, Ms. Walstad

[@juliaheinritz3264]

I enjoyed this demo. It was different and unexpected. The guest certainly knows her stuff . It was fun watching Lisa 'in her element' creating a little underwater world😊

[@mujacko2002]

Diana Walstad is one of my heroes in this hobby. The facts that she shared made my hobby more tolerable, less chaotic, more practical, and just chill. Thank you for guesting her. Mabuhay from the Philippines.

[@ShuKatashSam]

Diana is the best human around!!

[@dylanneff]

Thank you so much for doing this interview. It’s amazing to hear from somebody so knowledgeable!

[@lisawhereisthecultjam]

An absolute legend. Thank you for spotlighting her wealth of knowledge. ❤

[@Wal48]

So happy to have found this video. Diana is my hero for sharing her knowledge through her fabulous book. Following her method revolutionised a hobby that was frustrated by an endless round of gravel cleaning and dying plants! Now I have aquariums with stable healthy plant growth, the oldest seven years and still going strong. Wonderful interview. Thank you so much.

[@angiebear8727]

Was so looking forward to this and was not disappointed! 💙💚💜❤️ she’s so chill. my takeaways are enjoy yourself and don’t worry too much because “it’s just fine” 😊

[@LeilaSoleil]

Wow what a FANTASTIC experience. I feel so honored. Now I need to set up a little shrimp bowl in my office. A little "happy maker."

[@hermionefinnigan]

Oh wow, I’m watching this video because of Mr. Pascoe’s recommendation. This is a wealth of information! Thank you for sharing this KG Tropicals. Thank you Diana Walstad for being here. I love this video!

[@afish320]

My copy of Ecology of the Planted Aquarium is on the way!! Thank you Lisa, this was such a treat!! ❤️

[@shannarafryer3111]

She seems so nice 🥰

[@Dekraakjes]

wow just watch a legend at work thanks Miss Walstad thanks KG Tropicals learn a lot again Greetings from The Netherlands

Love this. I'm really glad that we get to see Walstead and hear someone who has influenced the hobby so much set up a small aquarium and hear from her directly. Love to get to see more with her.

[@Piscesrex]

She just casually blows minds everywhere she goes. I love her method 🙏

[@scottstankevich8866]

What an amazing interview and demonstration with the Mother of natural tanks. You are both blessed to have had her at your place. Thank you for sharing this truly wonderful video.

[@vclaudio001]

I just emptied out a 5 gallon tank. I can’t wait to start her method. Especially with plants from KG and her book coming in. What an amazing woman. Thanks for sharing guys. Stay Blessed !

[@synthesaurus]

I’ve done many of these small tanks and found that starting them with “old” water from other established tanks eliminates the usual problems with algae blooms.

[@JermichaelAdventures]

I love how your husband comes in the picture and just adds that little bit of comedy and humor to the video.

[@CarolynnMc01]

What a wonderful guest, Lisa! This was such an interesting video and I'm sure so many people (along with me) received a great education today! Thank you for sharing. My desk probably needs a nice little Walstad method fish bowl. You're an amazing and beautiful person, Lisa. All the best your way!

[@chrishowell4775]

Thanks for the stream nice to get to see Diane walstad at work ❤

[@vinniediego]

Always love u guys for the best and least boring content....but bringing the legend herself here for all to learn from her....this should have a million views at least

[@nhansme]

What a legend she is… Thank you so much for making this great video !!!❤️

[@ByeByePeachPie]

I'm SO EXCITED to hear her talk, I have her book she signed and I reference it all the time!

[@jeffkane4391]

Thanks for sharing! It's great to see Diana demonstrate her process. 😊❤

[@mr.octopus6972]

❤Thank you Diana. I found your work by following the "FatherFish method" that is really the Walstad method. I wanted to go to the roots and searched for your name. Out of pure innocence I tought that your books had been written like 200 years ago 😅 (you look great for a 230 years old by the way🤣) Now I have to go buy that book to encourage the right people, I hope I could find a copy that's in french. See ya.

[@Commenter2001]

That was awesome. It is magical to see wisdom being exchanged on a face to face level like this.

[@raygv1]

You hear Diane Walstead all over KZbin and it’s awesome to know she’s from right here in the valley

[@Trisha554R]

Thank you for having this amazing guest on!

[@drtek1329]

I have always wondered how these types of setups were done. So amazing to learn with you from Diana Walstad! Thank you!

[@keithcolley3837]

Lisa, what a fantastic video! I'm a massive fan of Ecosystem Aquariums, and I love the Walstad Method. I've set a few of them up over the years. A lot of people promote these lower energy, ecosystems as zero maintenance, but I find mine require a different style of maintenance. Watching the livestock and dialling things in accordingly. Thank you for making a video on the topic. It's so nice to come onto KZbin and find an aquarium video with substance to it. Something for the experienced fishkeepers to enjoy. There seems to be less and less of that these days.

[@vijayjoseph8164]

This is so great! Diana Walstad inspired me to start the planted tank hobby. :) Humble and inspiring lady.

[@billbush1270]

I got the book from Diana on Saturday at the Pittsboro/Chatham County Agricultural Center Aqua Mania show. The show was fun, everyone was helpful, and Diana herself kindly helped me decide on a small aquarium I bought there. I'll finish reading the book and rewatch this video before I set up my 7 gallon square tank.

[@Maxsmom13]

Diana is absolutely adorable and brilliant! Love this video!

[@ArtByBritania]

I love Diana! Its wonderful to see her on screen! Thank you!!!

[@marcopardo453]

I truly enjoyed the video. Her method is so simple and it obviously has great results. Crazy to believe that many in the hobby mislead people by saying that one needs all of these high tech products. Thank you for sharing 🤩

[@BLUEGREEN65]

Awesome demonstration and information!!! I will definitely be getting Diana Walstad’s book! Very excited to give this a try! 😊

[@GG-mu4wg]

Nice video & great to hear from Mrs Walstad herself. I do wish more had been said about the soil component, though. Simply stating "potting soil" leaves a large margin for error, it might contain; loam, peat, green waste, coir, perlite, vermiculite, fertilizers, chemicals & so on - thats assuming people don't just mistake soil for compost in the first place. Something to consider if anyone plans to add livestock.

[@eduardogomez7149]

what a great video, diana walstad is a legend

[@madeleinemccall7935]

This episode was the sweetest y'all have done! I loved it! I love her and her book! Thank you for having her on.

[@JolliBliss]

Old School meets New School. Looking forward to seeing Ms. Diana Walstad replicate her infamous Walstad Tank. #cool

[@ShaneColgan-r4r]

Diana Walstad has really great posture, I feel like especially for an author.

[@ofhismercy109]

Love love love this!!! Thank you so much for the talk and the step by step how to, Diana and KGT Tropicals! Read Dianas' book a few years ago and failed at that attempt, but now feeling so confidant to try again! Dianas' book was in high demand at our local library back then, had to wait to check it out even with 3 copies, and have always wanted to achieve a planted tank, thank you so much for the visual demonstration, again!!❤

[@VictoriaFlores-u8z]

You ladies are adorable and I enjoyed this demonstration…it wasn’t too polished and felt like I too could accomplish this in the real world 😊 I appreciate you both

[@catherinesanchez1185]

I have her book. I do what I call "the half assed Walstad method " and it's worked out pretty well. LOL! I'm not a break tanks down and redo them kind of person. Once i have it set up the way I like, It pretty much leave them be. The plants seem to really help the fish relax and be happy. It allows me to not have to do constant , large water changes all the time. The bowls looked great . I'll have to try that one of these days.

[@annemarieacosta8775]

Can't wait to try this !!!! What a great idea and a great lady full of knowledge !

[@michel999_ARG]

Gracias por compartir el trabajo y a Diana Walstad en persona. Su método me inspira. Saludos desde Argentina.

[@w13rdguy]

First heard of Diana way back when, had successful fish keeping ever since. She favors low cost, low tech(as she calls it), but it's based in solid biology and chemistry.

[@Rhams3y]

Thank you for this video. Ordered the fourth edition for my collection.

[@Aquatic_Amigo]

Great interview… what a wonderful lady she’s a legend.. super cool .. getting her book fosho

[@kamrankambang7953]

As a chemist and a fishkeeper, i love diana walstad so much. Experimented with no WC 3.5gal tank last year, after about 3 months im shocked that my nitrate is at 0 without any WC. Its relatively ez to setup and im shocked that its not more popular.

[@Jamiesayla]

Thank you Diana for your knowledge and experience! I’m setting up my first dirtied aquarium right now and you’ve given me some great tips! You are a treasure for the aquarium hobbyist!

[@louisedery1049]

I was wondering what I could do with this glass fish bowl I couldn't sell at my garage sale :-) Read the book and watch this video a zillion times and get my plants from John and Lisa. Thank you so much for the video, Lisa you did a great job. ♥ I never heard of this woman becaue I am new to fish keeping. But I really appreciate you producing this video for you. I appreciate you and John so much!

[@jasonmillwood2893]

What an epic video! Seriously she has changed my aquarium life

[@DidisFINDen]

that was awesome Lisa. i have a very sad little bowl that would love this. so, guess what happens tomorrow..yep...a trip for some potting soil. thanks, and this came at the best time....

[@FluorescentBetta]

Wow😍 She's like a legend! So awesome you got to interview her.

[@Jennifer-nz2ss]

Wow!she's awsome. Please have her on more. I enjoyed this very much and want to get her books right now!😙💜💜💜

[@afaquaworld4458]

Have read her book and applied the knowledge which did work quite a big on my planted aquarium hobby

[@bwompy1294]

This woman is a legend.

[@pkendlers]

Awesome! You got the legend for an interview. You guys are killing it since you've gotten settled from your move. Congratulations! 🎉🎉