Artificial or Live Plants: An Honest Comparison
Live planting is rewarding and demanding. Silk and plastic plants are neither, and that is sometimes exactly right.
What live plants give you
Nutrient uptake, oxygenation and a tank that looks better every month. They also want light, substrate and often CO2.
What artificial plants give you
Instant cover, no lighting requirement, and no decay. In a low-light tank or a hospital tank they are the practical answer.
Mixing is allowed
Dense artificial cover at the back with a few easy live species in front is a common and sensible compromise.