plants in freshwater tank

Question
 Hello,

 Thanks for helping.  Is there anything complicated about planting new plants in a tank.  Can you just use the existing rocks in the bottom of the aquarium to plant them in.  Should I have to feed them often if the nitrates get low.  What else should I know about placing plants in new aquariums.  I have a 36 gallon tank.  You can look at what it looks like here. http://adt-web.com/mahoward/fishtank.jpg
All of those plants in there are all made of plastic.  Thank you.  

Answer
Hi Michael,
Thanks for your questions and the photo of your tank. Looks great!
The thing about plants is that they do not "grow" like planting a plant in your yard. They are more like a vegetable you try to pin down in the gravel. Usually they will dislodge and float to the top. Often, the fish eat them like a giant salad. See them as a temporary decoration. As soon as they start to break down and die, pull them out and toss them. Rotting plants will pollute the tank. You might keep some of your plastic ones and just have a couple live plants near the front.
For a complete guide to wholistic aquarium care, go to:
http://steamboats.com/aquarium.html
Write back if any questions or if you want to discuss further.
Nori