I started my first real planted tank last January, so can tell you what I did.

My tank is low tech (no high lighting or cO2)

I have 2 - 13 watt compact flourescent lights
My substrate is Flourite (but EcoComplete would be great too) from 1 1/2 - 3" deep.

Plants are
Java Fern
Cryptocorynes
Anubias
Rotala

I also use Flourish Excel as fertilizer.