Dutch Style Rules: Complete Guide for Intermediates

The Dutch style aquascape stands as a timeless classic in the planted aquarium world. Known for its vibrant colors, deliberate structure, and striking use of plants, this stunning style captivates hobbyists and judges alike. If you’ve mastered the basics and are ready to elevate your aquascaping skills, this complete guide for intermediates will help you unravel the essential Dutch style rules, plant selection strategies, and design secrets to create a living masterpiece.

What is Dutch Style Aquascaping?

Dutch style aquascaping focuses on lush, organized displays of aquatic plants arranged in structured layers and terraces. Unlike nature aquascapes that mimic natural landscapes, the Dutch approach celebrates garden-like artistry, employing purposeful color contrasts and plant groupings. This method emphasizes plant health and diversity, making it as much about horticulture as design.

Core Dutch Style Aquascape Rules

Before diving into planting, it’s important to understand the guiding principles behind this celebrated style. The following Dutch aquascaping rules, inspired by the Dutch Aquascaping Union (NBAT), will help you create a tank that’s both beautiful and competition-ready.

1. Limit Plant Species Per Group

Only use one plant species per distinct group or “street.” This prevents visual confusion and highlights each plant’s unique characteristics. Aim for 8-12 plant species in a standard 60-120 cm tank. Each species should be grouped together in a distinct, cohesive patch.

2. Create Plant “Streets”

A signature feature of Dutch aquascapes is the creation of plant “streets”—rows of the same plant type that extend from the foreground to the background. These streets provide a sense of depth and direct the viewer’s gaze through the aquascape. Not every group must be a street, but they should flow in a dynamic yet controlled pattern.

3. Height Variation and Layering

Structure your layout with deliberate height progression. Background plants should clearly rise above midground and foreground varieties, creating pronounced, visible terraces. This “stepped” effect enhances depth and complexity, a must for captivating Dutch aquascapes.

4. Contrast Color, Leaf Shape, and Texture

Place groups with differing colors, leaf shapes, or textures adjacent to each other. Contrasts in these elements prevent monotony and produce vibrant visual interest. For example, soft, feathery Limnophila is best paired next to bold, red Rotala or Echinodorus varieties.

5. Limit Hardscape Elements

Unlike Iwagumi or Nature-style layouts, Dutch style uses minimal hardscape. Rocks and driftwood should be subtle, serving only as accents or invisible root anchors. Let your plants do the talking!

Best Plant Choices for Dutch Aquascaping

Success in Dutch style aquascaping depends on using healthy, vibrant plant species that exhibit a variety of forms and fills. Here are some popular choices:

• Rotala rotundifolia: Versatile midground or background red stem plant.
• Ludwigia repens: Offers striking reds and easy maintenance.
• Hygrophila polysperma: Fast-growing, great for streets and transitions.
• Limnophila sessiliflora: Feathery leaves create soft contrast.
• Alternanthera reineckii: Deep reds for visual pop.
• Bacopa caroliniana: Adds texture and calm green tones.
• Cryptocoryne spp.: Compact, broad leaves for foreground impact.
• Pogostemon stellatus: Unique star-shaped form and pinkish hues.

Want more inspiration? Check out our Best Plants for Dutch Style Aquascapes guide.

Step-by-Step Dutch Style Layout Planning

Planning makes or breaks your Dutch aquascape. Here’s a step-by-step workflow:

1. Tank Size and Substrate

Begin with at least a 60cm aquarium to give enough space for distinct plant groups. Use a nutrient-rich substrate to support vigorous growth and root development—a must for lush “streets.”

2. Sketch Your Layout

Draw your tank from the front. Mark zones for each plant species, planning staggered rows and overlapping plant heights. Arrange species so that no two adjacent groups have similar leaf shapes or colors.

3. Planting Order

Start planting from the background, working forwards. Place taller species in the rear, mid-heights in the center, and carpeting plants up front. Maintain group boundaries and avoid scattering single stems.

4. Routine Maintenance

Dutch aquariums require regular trimming to retain shape and prevent any one group from overtaking its neighbors. Plan weekly maintenance sessions and re-plant trimmed stems as needed to keep “streets” crisp and defined.

Tips for Color Coordination

Color is a hallmark of the Dutch style. Follow these tips for exceptional results:

• Pair bold reds (like Alternanthera) with bright greens for striking contrast.
• Alternate fine, delicate plants with broad-leaved species.
• Balance warm-toned plants with cooler greens and blues for harmony.

Struggling with coloration? Explore tips in our Red Plant Care Guide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding with too many species—stick to 8-12 for most tanks.
• Allowing plant groups to blend—maintain sharp separation for each street or patch.
• Neglecting regular pruning—overgrowth destroys structure and flow.
• Including dominant hardscape or non-plant focal points.
• Mixing styles (e.g., adding wild Nature-style features).

Showcase: Inspiring Dutch Style Aquascapes

Looking for creative ideas? Visit our Dutch Style Gallery for award-winning layouts and in-depth case studies.

Conclusion

The Dutch style is a celebration of aquatic plant artistry, challenging intermediate aquascapers to master composition, color, and horticulture. By following these rules and tips, you’ll build vibrant underwater gardens that impress judges and delight viewers. Ready to try your hand at Dutch aquascaping? Dive deeper with our detailed guides and join the Aquascaping Academy Community to share progress and get expert feedback!