What Have I Done?

[ellena]

I've just tried to plant up my betta tank using a cat litter clay substrate. I thought it would need washing so I tried but it didn't go well! I think I could have rinsed forever! So I went ahead and added it to the tank and put the plants in. There was water from the washing which was very cloudy, so I thought I'd fill it up then add a layer of sand once everything had settled down.
It looks awful! Will it settle down today? The particles are so fine and I have a trickle filter so there's a constant stream of water into the tank too. I've baffled it a bit with some floss.
Did I mess up big time? I'm going to get a betta for it today-I know I shouldn't have left it so late, I thought it would be straightfowrward
Thanks for any tips

 

[Curiosity101]

I think you're meant to pour dry cat litter into the bottom. Then add a tiny bit of water (into the bottom of the tank) to get it damp.
Then cap with pre washed sand and fill carefully, using a saucer or bowl to avoid disturbing the sand.

If it were me I'd be tempted to start again if possible.

 

[ellena]

#29###! I think you're right The plants did stay well in the wet litter though

 

[ellena]

Right, thanks for the advice I took it outside and hosed it down and started again. I'm not convinced though, some of the litter has worked its way up already. I hope the ammonia stays low so I don't have to do extra water changes.