Who Gives A Fish Forums

I've become a big fan of online plant shopping. My go-to spot is Buceplant.com - don't let the name fool you, they've got a massive selection beyond just buces. I'm always on the hunt for rare plants for my unique biotopes, and they usually have exactly what I need. The quality is top-notch ...

I'd say just chop it up. Each piece will grow into a new one, usually.

I've had decent success with Miracle Grow Organic, but in all honesty, I think just using dirt from the yard can be just as effective. Of course, you've got to take the necessary precautions, but it's definitely worth a shot.

I've had good luck with play sand from the hardware store. I've used Quickcrete and Black Diamond, which is actually a blasting sand. Some folks warn that it's too sharp for bottom-dwellers, but I've had no issues with cories and loaches over the years. That being said, your experience may vary. I ...

I used to swear by the combo of 1" organic potting soil and 2" of sand, and it did work for me. However, I've come to realize that soil has its downsides. For one, it releases ammonia for a few weeks, which I actually utilized to cycle my tanks. If you have burrowing fish, be prepared for a mess ...

I've had mixed results with some plants, but Vallisnerias have been a standout for me - they take a bit of time to settle in, then the growth really takes off.


That's odd, I had the opposite experience with val in my 150g. It initially didn't do well and just sort of... gave up. But then, out ...

You can get away with using just about any type of soil, as long as it's free of chemical fertilizers - I'd steer clear of perlite though, those little white bits tend to float. If you're using bagged soil, check the ingredients list - in my experience, it's usually included - and avoid anything ...

I've had good experiences with crypts in low-tech setups like yours, especially when paired with a deep sand substrate. Adding a thin layer of soil under the sand can help them establish themselves, but I've found it's not entirely necessary and can sometimes cause issues with burrowing fish. I've ...

I've always gone the bulb route for my water lilies and lotus, never seeds. Had some great success with them, but I've never given them enough time to develop enough surface leaves for blooming.

It's definitely possible to grow plants in sand. If you're dealing with heavy root feeders like swords, adding root tabs can be beneficial. For other plants, it's not a major concern.