I'm facing a difficult decision, what should i do

[southoak]

I'm setting up a 29 gallon and I want to do it right this time. I've always gone budget, but now I'm thinking of investing in a nice planted scape with quality materials. I'm leaning towards using eco complete as the substrate. Now I'm torn between using two bags of eco complete or layering dirt underneath and capping it off with eco complete. What do you guys think would be the best option for a beautiful planted tank?

[hillsman]

I'm not sure I see the point in combining eco complete with dirt. Eco complete is supposed to provide all the necessary nutrients to the plant roots, so adding dirt seems like overkill to me. Unless, of course, you're looking for a cheaper alternative to buying a second bag of eco complete.

[southoak]

I'm not sure I see the point in combining eco complete with dirt. Eco complete is supposed to provide all the necessary nutrients to the plant roots, so adding dirt seems like overkill to me. Unless, of course, you're looking for a cheaper alternative to buying a second bag of eco complete.

That's exactly what I was thinking, I don't want to shell out for two bags if I can get away with just one and still have a great planted tank.

[oldraider]

Could you share your water test results? Are you planning on having just plants or a mix of plants and fish? Have you set up a planted tank before, or is this your first time?

[southoak]

Could you share your water test results? Are you planning on having just plants or a mix of plants and fish? Have you set up a planted tank before, or is this your first time?

I'm planning on keeping fish in this tank as well. I've got some experience with planted tanks - 2 out of my 4 tanks are planted. But this is the first time I'm investing in a plant-specific substrate.

[hillsman]

When people discuss dirt in aquariums, they're often referring to a nutrient-rich layer, such as compost, placed beneath gravel or sand.

If you're looking for a filler, several options could work - sand or gravel, for instance. However, I'd recommend something inert, as the eco complete already contains nutrients. Introducing an organic material could lead to a significant algae outbreak. I'd also exercise caution when using a deep layer of sand, as it may result in gas formation.

To prevent the lower substrate from mixing with the eco complete, consider cutting the legs off of ladies' tights (or pantyhose in the US), filling them with the chosen material, and layering them at the base of the tank. This approach will maintain a clean aesthetic.

[boomer]

I've tried eco-complete alternatives and wasn't impressed. I used Flourite, which is similar, and after two years, I ended up dumping it in my garden. These substrates don't live up to the nutrient-adding hype - I still had to use liquid and tab fertilizers.

Diana Walstad, who pioneered the soil method, even admits that after almost a year, inert sand substrates are just as effective. The initial CO2 release from soil is a plus, but it also comes with ammonia that can be deadly to fish. Most advocates recommend a dry start and a six-month fish-free period. Given the hassle, I'd say it's not worth it. Plants will thrive in inert sand or fine gravel - mine certainly did.

[southoak]

I've tried eco-complete alternatives and wasn't impressed. I used Flourite, which is similar, and after two years, I ended up dumping it in my garden. These substrates don't live up to the nutrient-adding hype - I still had to use liquid and tab fertilizers.

Diana Walstad, who pioneered the soil method, even admits that after almost a year, inert sand substrates are just as effective. The initial CO2 release from soil is a plus, but it also comes with ammonia that can be deadly to fish. Most advocates recommend a dry start and a six-month fish-free period. Given the hassle, I'd say it's not worth it. Plants will thrive in inert sand or fine gravel - mine certainly did.

For immediate plant growth, I'd recommend using a nutrient-rich substrate that's specifically designed for aquatic plants, like a high-quality potting soil or a substrate like ADA Amazonia. These types of substrates will give your plants the nutrients they need right from the start, and you can also supplement with liquid fertilizers to promote healthy growth.

[oldraider]

For instant plant growth, I've found root tabs like Flourish to be effective, especially for plants that absorb nutrients through their roots. I also supplement with a comprehensive fertilizer, which helps plants that get their nutrients from the water.

[desertstream]

I'm with boomer on this one. I've tried a bunch of different substrates - eco complete, flourite, aqua soil, dirt, gravel, sand... you name it. The thing is, stuff like eco complete and dirt just aren't that useful after a couple years. They need to be replaced, which is a real pain. On the other hand, if you're using an inert substrate like sand, you can just add some root tabs and you're good to go for as long as you've got the tank.