Planting Medium/substrate...

[miggi]

Hi, I'm thinking of redoing my tanks from scratch, I've got sand as a base at the moment, and love the look of it, but want to get a substrate under it for the plants. Is there a particular reason why normal compost is unsuitable? I just can't afford to go for some expensive specialised aquarium stuff, and wondered if anyone knew an effective (reasonably priced) alternative?? I know I sound like a right cheapskate!!! Just trying to stretch the pennies as much as possible... its tight round here! - and I've pushed the boat out getting a decent set of aquarium lights!!

Anyone with any ideas???

Thanks
Marie

 

[Themuleous]

Laterite is a cheap alternative but it only really contains Iron. The new tropica substrate is a base layer so works out pretty cheap a 2.5lt bag is 14.99 and will be enough for a 85lt tank. You can get it from Aquaessentials.

Sam

 

[miggi]

ty for the reply, I have a 400 litre tank, so not that cheap!!! lol, it'd work out between £60-75.... I'm thinking about using large flattish pots so I can use less plant substrate, and hiding the pots behind bogwood.
What do you think?
Marie

 

[George Farmer]

I've seen success with this - http/www.waterways-direct.co.uk/shopexd.asp?id=6056

I would aim for a 1cm layer below 3" of plain gravel. One or two 8 litre bags should be plenty. Fill the tank very slowly to prevent cloudiness. Try to plant with species that do not need uprooting and re-planting i.e. swords, crpyts and other rosette type plants.

 

[-=Joel=-]

Hiya marie,

I have used pond compost and Tetra Substrate in my 400litre tank. Works out around £30.

Check out my journal since I have just started. It may help you.

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=162538

Joel

 

[miggi]

hey thanks for that - I have been told that pond or normal compost is too rich in nutrients and will create algae problems - you'll have to let me know how it goes. I'm tempted to go with it like you tho lol, I'm gonna get a job lot of plants so need a good base. I've also upgraded (not arrived yet) my lights in the hope to create a well-planted tank.
It is difficult to decide whats best!!!
Marie