Real/Outdoor Rocks

[noahk11]

I would like to add a rock to my aquarium sense it is currently very bare. I have TONS of rocks in my backyard. Can i use that kind of rock in my aquarium? If i clean it and such. If so how should i go about cleaning it?

[Micho]

To clean the rocks just put them in boiling water and leave them there for a few minutes, don't put the lid on~

As long it's not from the sea or chemically polished/painted I see no problem with it.

[Myates]

Make sure it's not in an area where pesticide has been sprayed (such as alongside the house). Be careful boiling, as many rocks have exploded from such hot water. Ones I had found I let soak for 5 days prior to using them, always changing the water out.

[noahk11]

Umm oops i boiled it in the water for like 10 mins then soaked it in cold water and it is now in my tank. Should i take it out?

[Myates]

It should be good, since it didn't explode =)

[noahk11]

well i didnt boil it on high, i boiled it on low. Im thinking of adding a plant next most likely plastic so i dont have to do extra care for a live plant. What kind of plants to bettas like?

[Myates]

Silk, and anything not spiky. Some like broad leaved ones, others like tall, thin ones. I mix mine up.