Robynski

Thanks, Steph. I bought the shelving at Lowe's (make sure to select a heavy duty option that can hold a lot of weight per shelf). https://www.lowes.com/pd/Style-Selections-18-in-D-x-47-7-in-W-x-72-in-H-6-Tier-Steel-Freestanding-Shelving-Unit/999990412 My original plan was to put a 20 long on the aquarium/middle shelf and 3 nanos on the plant shelf, so I wanted to make sure it could support the weight. I think this one holds an estimated 600lbs per shelf - but I won't be testing that limit! If I intended to fill the entire rack with aquariums I'd have bought Edsal shelving. I then bought 1/2" plywood, which I got the lumber yard worker to cut for me since we are renters and own limited tools. I hand-sawed the notches so the wood fits around the corner posts (this could be done nicer with power tools we don't own, but it got the job done). By cutting notches in the corners the wood covers the entire top rather than a strip between the posts. I then sanded/stained/polyurethaned the wood. Stain is varathane dark walnut. This took some time, but the final look turned out how I imagined. It is a bit difficult to make the shelves level. Overall, a great shelter-at-home project that really transformed my office nook. 🙂

Here are some pictures of my houseplant/nano tank rack. My working-from home desk is next to this shelf, so I can look over at my neocaradina shrimp bowl and endler tank whenever I'm feeling stressed. 🙂

That's my thinking, but curious if others have thoughts to share on the topic. Also, just learned that Houseplant-Tube is a thing. They collect plants like FishTubers collect fish/tanks. I need to be careful, or I might end up with MTS and MPS (Multiple Plant Syndrome). Seems many plant influencers are recommending T5 grow lights. Since I do get some natural light I think that supplementing with the Finnex will be fine.... At least until I decide to set up my empty 20-long. :)

I have a Finnex Stingray light (bought through Aquarium Coop!) that isn't being used on an aquarium at the moment. Would I see worthwhile results if I hung this light above my houseplants and use it to provide some extra light over winter? My plants are next to a window, but get a lot less light this time if year. I'm not trying to farm indoor tomatoes in December... Just trying to keep my birdsnest fern alive. Thanks for any advice you can offer me!