Topping Fluval Stratum

[Country joe]

If starting up a new tank, and wanting to use a base layer of Stratum, can I top it with a fine pea gravel.

 

[MuddyWaters]

I have done that, but it won't stay separated. I've also put it in the back of a tank with white sand in the front. I built a wall of rock sealed with that pond adhesive and a plastic liner on the bottom of the tank and up the back side of the rock wall. I figured that would keep the stratum separated from the sand. It did not. The stratum got through and I think even the fish were kicking it into the sand. Over time it became almost impossible to fish it out.

I just re-did a 29 gallon tank in my office (the one that did have the rock wall. I added Fluval stratum to mesh bags and covered them with small gravel. I am betting on this to stay separate. One note though, Fluval stratum breaks down into dirt over time. Takes a fair amount of time, but eventually it will. I have a 15 gallon tank upstairs that is about 6 years old- there are still pebbles of Fluval stratum, but there is a lot of just black dirt in it too. Doesn't bother me in that one, but just something to be aware of.

 

[Country joe]

I've been told in my fish shop its well run, not to bother just add plants and gravel with fertiliser tabs, and dose with fertiliser liquid weekly, as the plants I'm thinking of are described as easy, I can grow most easy plants, but the one I struggle with is Vallisneria, I've tried two different lots all have died, and there supposed to be one of the easiest.