How to Use the Aquael Leddy Smart PLANT LED for Plant Growth

By Pro Shrimp | Published: 2026-10-29

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to set up and use the Aquael Leddy Smart PLANT LED for healthy plant growth. Step-by-step guide covering light modes, placement, and photoperiod.

Quick answer

To get the best plant growth from the Aquael Leddy Smart PLANT LED, use the DAY mode for 8–10 hours daily, position the light close to the water surface, and switch to NIGHT mode only after lights out.

Why the right light mode matters for plant growth

The Aquael Leddy Smart PLANT LED offers three modes: DAY, DAYBREAK, and NIGHT. DAY mode provides the full light intensity needed for photosynthesis, while DAYBREAK is a gentler setting that can be used for gradual transitions or low-light setups. NIGHT mode is not for plant growth—it's designed for nocturnal viewing, so relying on it will slow or stop plant development.

For most planted nano tanks, DAY mode should be your default. If you have low-light plants like Anubias or Java fern, you can extend the photoperiod slightly, but never exceed 10 hours to avoid algae outbreaks.

Placement and mounting considerations

The Leddy Smart PLANT LED is designed for small aquariums, so correct placement is crucial. Mount it so the light sits just above the water surface—this maximizes light penetration without overheating the water. If the light is too high, plants at the bottom may not receive enough intensity.

Because this is a compact light, it's best suited for nano tanks. If you have a deeper tank, consider supplementing with another light or choosing a more powerful model, as the Leddy Smart may not reach the substrate in taller aquariums.

Step-by-step setup for plant growth

Mount the light correctly: Position the Leddy Smart PLANT LED so it sits directly above the aquarium, as close to the water surface as possible without touching it. Ensure it's centered to avoid dark corners. A light that is too high reduces intensity at the substrate—adjust height before fixing it in place.
Choose DAY mode for growth: Press the mode button until the DAY light is active. This is the full-intensity mode that drives photosynthesis. Use it as your primary setting. Avoid using DAYBREAK as the main mode—it's for gentle transitions, not sustained growth.
Set a consistent photoperiod: Run the DAY mode for 8–10 hours daily. Use a timer to keep the schedule consistent, which helps plants and prevents algae. More than 10 hours can trigger algae—stick to the recommended range.
Use NIGHT mode only after lights out: After your photoperiod ends, you can switch to NIGHT mode for a few hours to observe nocturnal activity. This mode is not for plant growth. Leaving NIGHT mode on all night wastes energy and does not benefit plants.
Monitor plant response and adjust: Watch for signs of insufficient light (stretched stems, pale leaves) or too much (algae growth). Adjust the photoperiod by 30-minute increments as needed. Plants tell you what they need—respond to changes rather than setting and forgetting.

Product spotlight

Aquael Leddy Smart PLANT LED: The Aquael Leddy Smart PLANT LED features three lighting modes: DAY, DAYBREAK, and NIGHT. This lets you match light intensity to your plants' needs and your viewing preference, but only DAY mode supports active growth.
Aquael Leddy Smart PLANT LED