Gravel of Sand?

[bigmick474]

Probably heard this question hundreds of time but i'm going to ask again.
is it better to grow plants in gravel or sand.
what else do i need to add to the tank to promote healthy plant growth?
Thanks in advance.

 

[bettaboi]

do a google search for eco complete its a good plant substrate

 

[bigmick474]

in one of the other posts, it said thad childrens play sand was good as it is no toxic.
does any one know if this is true.

 

[Griz]

I feel safe in saying that sand is generally considered to be better than gravel for growing plants, but that's not to say the plants cannot do well in gravel. I use play sand in my tank, it works fine but there are other choices too. Depends onhow much you want to spend and what you think looks good. The other requirements for healthy plant growth are light, water and nutrients. These will vary depending on the plant. Have a look at the pinned topics and check out the links, there is so very good info in there to get you started.

 

[RYO]

I use sand in baoth my tanks, but if i was starting again i would go with very fine gravel with Seachem Flourite or Eco Complete or somthing along those lines.
I love the look of sand, but it would depend on the fish type you have also the type and amount of plants you want.Root feeders would need root tabs and the like added as the sand carries no nutrients and can compress roots .

 

[WhispTech]

from my experience thus far from trying planted tanks I find that my plants do better in sand.

I use the seachem onyx sand.

 

[bigmick474]

i've just bought play sand to go in my tank.
I think i've found an easy way to clean it.
I'm using a cement mixer as it keeps the sand moving and all i have to do is put in the water.
Not sure if it works yet tho.
Thanks for everyones help.

 

[StarOrbs]

Personally I prefer the look of gravel. Either way I have Flourite and so far my plants are doing well. I've only had plants for a week so I'm hardly an expert lol.