Any Old Wood Will Do?

[jaimemuffin]

Hey guys,
Im working on creating a live planted tank and was really just wondering if drift wood is just driftwood. As in, if im walking on the beach and find a cool piece, can i put that in my tank? i assume id have to soak it for a while to make sure it doesnt have anything in it or too much salt etc. This may seem like a given, but i dont want to kill my betta or any other fish i that may come in contact with me. thanks!
Jaime

 

[minnnt]

I would imagine it to be very salty...

Something from your nearest woods/forest would probably be a safer bet imo, thats where most of mine comes from. Beech and Oak are safe to use, but as long as it is dry and free from bark it should be ok.

 

[This Old Spouse]

Hey, Jaime (that's my daughter's name!), you should try to determine if the driftwood is a hardwood, as pine, spruce, etc. shouldn't be used because of the sap that may leach into the tank. But frankly, if it's been in the water for 10 years I don't think that's much of a problems. If you're talking about driftwood from an ocean beach, yes, soak it for a good long time to try to remove as much salt as possible. It also wouldn't hurt to pour boiling water over it to kill off any nasties. Just don't boil the wood or it will break down the fibers and end up rotting.

 

[jaimemuffin]

thank you both so much I think ill go driftwood searching sometime soon since i have some new plants i want to tie on and it hthink its ridiculous to spend $20 at petsmart. and you picked a great name for your daughter!!

 

[minnnt]

Yep, wood prices are ridiculous. Pine is safe to use once dried, i have used it several times.

 

[This Old Spouse]

Yep, wood prices are ridiculous. Pine is safe to use once dried, i have used it several times.

I think if it's true aged driftwood as you'll likely find near the ocean, you'll be fine.