Substrate Help Please

[firsttimefishboy]

Hi all, what is the advantage if any of using a complete substrate, such as eco-complete or seachem flourite, compared to a normal fine lime free gravel? I'm baseing this on the fact that root tabs will need to be added to whichever i use to give my plants the best conditions. Has anyone any experience or recommendations regarding the complete substrates please?

 

[pablothebetta]

From what I understand, eco-complete, flourite and other such substrates contain nutrients for plants whereas regular gravel or sand aren't likely to

 

[ShinySideUp]

From what I understand, eco-complete, flourite and other such substrates contain nutrients for plants whereas regular gravel or sand aren't likely to

That said, as with all nutrients, they will eventually be used up and you will still have to fertilize using other methods or else replace the substrate. I considered nutrient-containing substrates when I started my latest tank but instead put in a sand bottom and continued with the ever-useful Seachem Flourish.