plants? sand? other substrates?

[schizo_fish]

I've recently been reading up on substrates, and was wondering:
1) does sand damage plant roots? if so, why?
2) can i mix laterite, flurite, or anything else with sand to help my plants out?
3) does anyone know of anywhere in the UK, or of a website where i can buy fertile substrate (i.e. eco-complete, laterite, etc.. etc).

any help is greatly appreciated.

SF

 

[clutterydrawer]

I've heard that sand compacts and squishes plant roots. I personally have not noticed any adverse effects since changing my substrate to sand.

 

[schizo_fish]

hi clutterydrawer, thats good to know

do u know where i may be able to buy laterite of something similar from?

 

[clutterydrawer]

Hmmm they have laterite at my lfs, but I don't know if you can mix it with sand. I really have no experience with it though, I didnt bother with it cos it seemed like too much hassle.

where abouts are you? cos as I said there is laterite in my lfs but it might be a bit far to go, depending

 

[schizo_fish]

im from near middlesbrough, north-east