Half Amazonian roots and driftwood and half planted?

[Ewmf]

Okay. I currently am growing out 5 golden discus in a 55 gallon. I was thinking in the future whether I could do a white sand bottom with some driftwood coming down on one side. (Imitating roots) Then on the other side a planted side with lots of easy beginner plants. Oh and the substrate on the planted side would slowly slope to the side. Would I need to invest in a Co2 diffuser or a special substrate? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks Eric. :D

[rbarn]

root fert pills can handle plant needs. Co2 is only needed if light levels are high enough to require it. It's all about balancing light / Co2 / and ferts. Lower light and no Co2 works fine, you just get slower growth. I always run Co2 on my tanks to control PH though so I am biased towards using it with a PH controller.