Possible New Substrate

[dayzofspeed]

I am sure that I have read somewhere, either in this forum or another one that John Innes No.3 is suitable to go into an aquarium, below the gravel, I know this stuff is loam based like aquatic compost and was wondering if anyone here has had any experience of using it, I am just concerned that the added nutrients might cause an algal bloom. I am planning to re do my tank hopefully for the last time in the new year and want something inexpensive for my plants to root into rather than just plain gravel, I am planning to top this off with black gravel with grains the size of sand or maybe a little bigger, so far I have only found it in 2 to 3mm and resin coated, but would prefer something more natural if at all possible, any suggestions??
cheers in advance.........Kevin

 

[dayzofspeed]

anyone?

 

[Andy_G]

"Soil substrates are popular with non CO2 users and they work well but peter out after about 6-12 months. They help the plants get established initailly and supply nutrients that are other wise lacking in the beginning before many fish are added and the tank has had a chance to accumulate waste." Tom Barr http/www.barrreport.com/showthread.php/2817-Non-CO2-methods


I know some people use John Innes no.1 instead, i've not used it myself but if you were worried it has less nutrients in as it's a potting soil. Have you had a look at Flourite Black Sand? it's clay based and not coated, you wouldn't need to cap it, but it's obv. not the cheapest route.

A

 

[dayzofspeed]

thanks for the reply, i will check out the flourite and the link was an interesting read