Blending Sand...anyone Ever Tried It

[Torrean]

I'm thinking of blending four types of sand and putting it in my gf's tank. I've got to get her input on it so one or two of those types will probably drop from the blend once I talk to her. I was just wondering if anyone had blended sand before and if you have any suggestions on ratios or types of sand to use. I'm thinking I'll do 30%all purpose 30% pool filter 15% play sand and the rest tahitian moon. I may cut back on the all purpose and the pool filter depending on how much the TMS sand costs and how much comes in a bag. I have play sand in my tank and she loves it but doesn't want it to be so bright and clean looking. I figure different types of sand and maybe some natural colored small gravel mixed in would give the effect she's looking for.

 

[iain.betson]

I'm thinking of blending four types of sand and putting it in my gf's tank. I've got to get her input on it so one or two of those types will probably drop from the blend once I talk to her. I was just wondering if anyone had blended sand before and if you have any suggestions on ratios or types of sand to use. I'm thinking I'll do 30%all purpose 30% pool filter 15% play sand and the rest tahitian moon. I may cut back on the all purpose and the pool filter depending on how much the TMS sand costs and how much comes in a bag. I have play sand in my tank and she loves it but doesn't want it to be so bright and clean looking. I figure different types of sand and maybe some natural colored small gravel mixed in would give the effect she's looking for.

hey torrean
i have silica sand blended with white gravel. at first it looked so unatural but as time has gone on and the tank has settled and the sand and gravel has moved it looks more natural. also adds a bit of protection to the plants from fish grubbing around

 

[Torrean]

how long has your tank been set up? Is the gravel still blended or has one settled underneath the other one? what was it that looked unnatural? Was it the uniformity of all white stones in the gravel because I'm planning on using varying colors.

 

[iain.betson]

how long has your tank been set up? Is the gravel still blended or has one settled underneath the other one? what was it that looked unnatural? Was it the uniformity of all white stones in the gravel because I'm planning on using varying colors.

the tanks been set up for around three months. the gravel seems to have mixed more with time. the problem in the first place was no matter how randomly i tried to spread and mix the gravel it didnt quite look right, also i was aiming to use it as protection for the plants which looked knida obvious at first.
its one of those things ya just gonna have to give it go.
best of luck

 

[Torrean]

Thanks. I think I will try it. Anyone else tried blending before? Any chances of a picture or two?