Plant Substrate!

[george4]

I am considering a planted tank however i have a few concerns which i would be grateful if any one could clear up. If i lay a planting substrate under the gravel? will this make gravel cleaning a nightmare. ? also, if i decide to remove the substrate , will i have to drain the tank?
Any info appreciated
thank you

 

[aaronnorth]

1) dont go as far down as the plant substrate. If you decide on 100% susbstrate coverage you wont need to do it anyway (just siphon any debis that has collected on top of the plants)
2) You wont have to drain the tank (although it would be easier) also be carefull to watch out for any ammonia spikes caused that may trigger algae.