Jbl Manado

[Haveagojoe]

Just starting a new tank, a fluval edge mainly for shrimp and plants so I got 5Ltrs of this JBL Manado and was wondering if anyone has used it and is it any good for a planting substrate.

http/www.swelluk.com/aquarium/co2-and-planting-equipment-32/planting-substrate-1605/jbl-manado-246630.html

Also would it need to be capped or is it ok left as it is as it looks pretty good.

 

[ian]

it isn't a bad planted substrate, it's fired clay, so it's high CEC, which means it will soak up unused nutrients and disperse them slowly. The thing is it doesn't contain any nutrients to begin with, so it's you're setting up a tank, you will need to dose something from the beginning (dependent on lighting). It is very light to plant in so i would suggest using a fair amount so you get some depth. I have used it a couple of times and had good results.

here's a pic of the plants with Manado.

 

[Haveagojoe]

I plan on dosing with tpn and easy carbo and if I can achieve something like that I would be well chuffed, btw any suggestions for planting as I said its a fluval edge 23 ltr so its going to be small plants it cant take anything big.

 

[ian]

Edges can be a pain to scape, but is done right can look really good. If you're using the edge lighting then go for some easier plants. You could still use the Carbo and the TPN, then the plants won't want for anything. Aquafluer have just released this

http/www.aquaessentials.co.uk/aquafleur-microsorium-mini-p-5976.html

a mini java fern! awesome!

You could also do a moss carpet. Maybe some crypt Parva. A nice bit of small bogwood...sorted.

good look Joe and keep us updated!

 

[Haveagojoe]

will do m8 thanks photos to follow

 

[JohnDonyatt]

I read that some didn't like JBL Manado.
My experience is as follows
9 gallon tank for SEVEN killifish was loaded with Manado and densely planted last October.
I had to take it down for relocation last Friday. All the plants had amazing fresh root growth.
I was truly amazed.
Heartily recommend this as a susbtrate