A guide to the best substrate for a planted tank. A planted aquarium is one of my favorite types of tanks. I have had a planted tank for over 10 years and I can confidently say it has been one of the most relaxing hobbies I have ever done. There is something so satisfying about setting up, planting aquarium plants, and maintaining a planted tank. On the plus side they are very fun to look at. I have spent hours watching the fish swim around in the plants and interacting with one another. But, It was not always so easy. For a long time I struggled to get my plants to grow and stay healthy and it took a while for me to figure out what the issue but when I did find it, my plants started to grow like crazy and it was hard to keep up with the growth.
What I had to change was the substrate for my planted tank. Once I got a better substrate the plants really grew and stayed a lot healthier. Setting up a tank
The best substrate for a planted tank
The best planted tank substrate is without a doubt aqua soil. Aqua soils are rich in organic acids and nutrients and is my recommended substrate for planted aquariums. Aqua soil provides nutrients for roots to grow and can help regulate the waters pH levels.
According to Purdue university study on Fundamentals of Soil Citation Exchange Capacity (CEC) The nutritional benefits of soil are based on its abilities to store nutrients and provide them to the plants as need.
The issues with most aquarium substrates like aquarium sand or aquarium gravel is that they do not store any nutrients directly in themselves and are unable to provide any nutrition to aquarium plants.
Growing plant life in an aquarium can be challenging, but it’s a rewarding experience for any beginner hobbyist. With the right approach, plant growth can become both lush and low-maintenance. The most important factor is maintaining the appropriate temperature and lighting conditions – not dissimilar to what plants require when grown outdoors. Aquarium owners should research which plants will thrive in their tanks and then strive to provide those plants with the necessary light, fertilizer, and carbon dioxide. By doing so, they’ll be on their way to cultivating a thriving ecosystem within their aquarium!
Plant growth is something that many aquarium hobbyists strive for when setting up planted aquariums. Through careful consideration of lighting, quality substrate, water chemistry and fertilizer, it is possible to create lush, healthy habitats for fish and other aquatic creatures. Plants will generally grow more vigorously with increased light, but be sure not to cause too much algae growth alongside the plants. Diligently monitoring parameters such as nitrates, phosphate and pH can help you ensure the habits remain clean and healthy for your inhabitants. By adhering to proper planted aquarium maintenance routines, you are far more likely to experience successful plant growth in your aquarium.
Best aqua soils for a planted tank
ADA Aqua Soil Amazonia
My pick for the best aqua soil I have used
Fluval Stratum
Runner up
Tropica plant care aquarium soil
Honorable Mention
How to choose the best substrate for a planted tank
A planted tank is a very beautiful and can be a unique addition to any home or office. Not only do they add a touch of nature and tranquility, but they also provide a home for a variety of aquatic plants and animals. One of the most important factors in creating a successful planted tank is the substrate, which is the material that covers the bottom of the tank.
The right substrate can make all the difference in the health and growth of your plants, as well as the overall appearance of your tank. In this article, we will explore the different types of substrates commonly used in planted tanks, including soil, sand, gravel, and nutrient-rich substrates.
We will also discuss the pros and cons of each type, and provide tips for preparing and maintainin your substrate to ensure the best possible results for your planted tank. Whether you are a seasoned aquarist or just starting out, this guide will give you the knowledge and tools you need to create the perfect substrate for your planted tank.
Types of aquarium substrate
Aquarium soil
Benefits
There are several benefits to using aquarium soil as a substrate in a planted tank:
- Nutrients: Soil is naturally rich in nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for plant growth. This can help promote healthy and robust plant growth in the tank.
- Natural Appearance: Soil can give the tank a more natural and realistic appearance, which can be especially appealing for planted tanks that are intended to mimic a specific type of environment or habitat.
- pH Stability: Soil can help to stabilize the pH levels in the tank, which can be beneficial for certain types of plants or fish.
- Easy to find: Soil is a common and easily accessible substrate that can be found at most gardening or pet stores.
- Cost-effective: Soil is relatively inexpensive compared to other substrates, making it a cost-effective option for those on a budget.
- Root Development: It can provide an optimal environment for roots development and nutrient uptake by plants.
- Buffering Capabilities: Soil can act as a buffer, which means that it can help to stabilize pH levels in the water, making it more suitable for some species of fish and plants.
- Plant-Specific: Some plants such as a nutrient-hungry plants like Sword plant, Cryptocoryne, Anubias, Java Fern, and some type of mosses prefer soil as their substrate.
It is important to note that aquarium soil should be properly prepared and maintained to ensure it does not release any unwanted toxins or harmful bacteria into the water.
How to prepare it
Preparing aquarium so il for use in a plan ted tank is an important step to ensure a healthy environment for your plants and other aquatic life. Here is a general guide on how to prepare soil for a planted tank:
1. Soak the soil: Soil should be soaked in water for 24-48 hours. This will help to remove any excess dust or debris, as well as help to soften the soil.
2. Mix the soil: After soaking, the soil can be mixed with other substrates such as sand or gravel to improve drainage. This will also help to prevent compaction, which can lead to poor water flow and oxygenation.
3. Add fertilizer to the soil: Before adding it to the tank, it can be fertilized with a nutrient-rich substrate such as laterite, vermiculite, or peat moss to boost the nutrient levels.
4. Add layers to the soil. You can create a layered substrate by adding different types of materials such as laterite, vermiculite, and peat moss, which will create an optimal environment for root development and nutrient uptake by plants.
5. Add Water to the tank: Once the substrate is prepared, it can be added to the tank and then filled with water. It is important to note that the water should be conditioned and have the proper pH level for the plants and fish you plan to keep.
It is important to note that soil-based substrates should be monitored closely, as they can release toxic gases if not properly maintained. It is recommended to do a water change regularly and test the water parameters to ensure a healthy environment for your plants and other aquatic life.
Suitable plant species for a soil substrate
There are many plant species that are suitable for planted tanks with soil substrates. Some popular options include:
- Sword plants (Echinodorus spp.): These are a group of large, robust plants that are well-suited to soil substrates. They are particularly well-suited to tanks with high nutrient levels and moderate to high light levels.
- Cryptocoryne (Cryptocoryne spp.): Cryptocoryne are a group of hardy, versatile plants that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. They are well-suited to soil substrates, and can adapt to different lighting and water chemistry conditions.
- Anubias (Anubias spp.): Anubias are a hardy, slow-growing plant that can be grown in a variety of conditions. They are particularly well-suited to soil substrates and do well in tanks with low light levels.
- Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus): Java Fern is a hardy, slow-growing plant that can be grown in a variety of conditions. They are well-suited to soil substrates and do well in tanks with low light levels.
- Mosses (Taxiphyllum, Vesicularia, etc): They are versatile and hardy, and do well in soil substrates. They are suitable for tanks with low to moderate light levels.
- Stem Plants (Hygrophila, Rotala, Ludwigia): These are fast-growing plants that are well-suited to soil substrates. They require moderate to high light levels and regular fertilization to thrive.
It is important to note that not all plant species will thrive in soil substrates, so it’s always a good idea to research the specific needs of the plants you plan to keep in your tank.
Aquarium Sand
Benefits of sand as a substrate
Sand is another popular substrate option for planted tanks. It offers several benefits such as:
- Natural Appearance: Sand can give the tank a natural and realistic appearance, especially when used in tanks that mimic a beach or desert environment.
- Easy to Find: Sand is a common and easily accessible substrate that can be found at most pet or hardware stores.
- Cost-effective: Sand is relatively inexpensive compared to other substrates, making it a cost-effective option for those on a budget.
- Low Maintenance: Sand is easy to clean and maintain, and it is less likely to compact over time, which can help to improve water flow and oxygenation in the tank.
- Root Development: Sand can also provide an optimal environment for root development and nutrient uptake by plants.
- pH stability: Sand can help to stabilize the pH levels in the tank, which can be beneficial for certain types of plants or fish.
- Plant-Specific: Some plants such as hairgrass, Glossostigma, and Marsilea prefer sand as their substrate.
- Surface area for beneficial bacteria: Sand’s large surface area can provide surface area for good bacteria to grow.
How to Prepare aquarium sand
Preparing sand for use in a planted tank is a relatively straightforward process. Here is a general guide on how to prepare sand for a planted tank:
1. Clean the sand: The first step is to clean the sand thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust or debris. This can be done by rinsing it with water and then sifting it through a fine mesh.
2. Soak the sand: After cleaning, the sand should be soaked in water for 24-48 hours. This will help to remove any remaining debris and also help to soften the sand.
3. add fertilizer to the sand: Before adding it to the tank, it can be fertilized with a nutrient-rich substrate such as laterite, vermiculite, or peat moss to boost the nutrient levels.
4. Create layers within your sand: You can create a layered substrate by adding different types of materials such as laterite, vermiculite, and peat moss, which will create an optimal environment for root development and nutrient uptake by plants.
5. Add Water to the tank: Once the substrate is prepared, it can be added to the tank and then filled with water. It is important to note that the water should be conditioned and have the proper pH level for the plants and fish you plan to keep.
6. Start adding plants to the sand substrate: Once the substrate is in place, you can start planting your aquatic plants. Be sure to plant them deep enough so that the roots are covered by the substrate.
It is important to note that sand can become compacted over time, so it is recommended to stir or rake the substrate regularly to maintain good water flow and oxygenation. Additionally, sand can be prone to anaerobic bacteria growth if it is not properly cleaned and maintained.
Suitable Plant species for a gravel substrate
| Plant Name | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Hairgrass (Eleocharis spp.) | Fast-growing, grass-like plant that can be used to create a natural-looking lawn in a planted tank. |
| Glossostigma (Glossostigma elatinoides) | Small, low-growing plant that can be used to create a natural-looking foreground in a planted tank. |
| Marsilea (Marsilea spp.) | Low-growing, fern-like plant that can be used to create a natural-looking foreground in a planted tank. |
| Cryptocoryne (Cryptocoryne spp.) | Hardy, versatile plants that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Can adapt to different lighting and water chemistry conditions. |
| Stem plants (Hygrophila, Rotala, Ludwigia) | Fast-growing plants that are well-suited to sand substrates. Require moderate to high light levels and regular fertilization to thrive. |
It is important to note that the benefits listed are general, and the specific needs of the plants you plan to keep in your tank should be researched. Additionally, it is important to remember that sand can become compacted over time, so it is recommended to stir or rake the substrate regularly to maintain good water flow and oxygenation. Additionally, sand can be prone to anaerobic bacteria growth if it is not properly cleaned and maintained.
Aquarium Gravel
Benefits of aquarium gravel in a planted tank
Gravel is another popular substrate option for planted tanks. It offers several benefits such as:
- Natural Appearance: Gravel can give the tank a natural and realistic appearance, especially when used in tanks that mimic a river or lake environment.
- Easy to Find: Gravel is a common and easily accessible substrate that can be found at most pet or hardware stores.
- Cost-effective: Gravel is relatively inexpensive compared to other substrates, making it a cost-effective option for those on a budget.
- Low Maintenance: Gravel is easy to clean and maintain, and it is less likely to compact over time, which can help to improve water flow and oxygenation in the tank.
- Root Development: Gravel can also provide an optimal environment for root development and nutrient uptake by plants.
- pH stability: Gravel can help to stabilize the pH levels in the tank, which can be beneficial for certain types of plants or fish.
- Surface area for beneficial bacteria: Gravel’s large surface area can provide a suitable environment for beneficial bacteria to colonize and help to keep the water clean and clear.
- Plant-Specific: Some plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, and some species of mosses prefer gravel as their substrate.
It is important to note that gravel can become compacted over time, so it is recommended to stir or rake the substrate regularly to maintain good water flow and oxygenation. Additionally, gravel can be prone to anaerobic bacteria growth if it is not properly cleaned and maintained.
How to prepare gravel substrate
Preparing gravel for use in a planted tank is a relatively straightforward process. Here is a general guide on how to prepare gravel for a planted tank:
1. Clean the gravel: The first step is to clean the gravel thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. This can be done by rinsing it with water and then sifting it through a fine mesh.
2. Soak the gravel: After cleaning, the gravel should be soaked in water for 24-48 hours. This will help to remove any remaining debris.
3. Add fertilizer to the gravel: Before ad ding gravel it to the tank, it can be fertilized with a nutrient-rich substrate such as laterite, vermiculite, or peat moss to boost the nutrient levels.
Planting: Once the aquarium substrate is in place, you can start planting your aquatic plants. Be sure to plant them deep enough so that the roots are covered by the substrate.
It is important to note that gravel can become compacted over time, so it is recommended to stir or use a vacuum on the the aquarium substrate regularly to maintain good water flow and oxygenation. Additionally, gravel can be prone to anaerobic bacteria growth if it is not properly cleaned
Plants that grow best in a gravel substrate
| Plant Name | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) | Hardy, slow-growing plant that can be grown in a variety of conditions. They are well-suited to gravel substrates and do well in tanks with low light levels. |
| Anubias (Anubias spp.) | Hardy, slow-growing plant that can be grown in a variety of conditions. They are particularly well-suited to gravel substrates and do well in tanks with low light levels. |
| Mosses (Taxiphyllum, Vesicularia, etc) | Versatile and hardy, they do well in gravel substrates. They are suitable for tanks with low to moderate light levels. |
| Cryptocoryne (Cryptocoryne spp.) | Hardy, versatile plants that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. They can be grown in gravel substrates and can adapt to different lighting and water chemistry conditions. |
| Stem plants (Hygrophila, Rotala, Ludwigia) | Fast-growing plants that are well-suited to gravel substrates. They require moderate to high light levels and regular fertilization to thrive. |
It is important to note that the benefits listed are general, and the specific needs of the plants you plan to keep in your tank should be researched. Additionally, it is important to remember that gravel can become compacted over time, so it is recommended to stir or rake the substrate regularly to maintain good water flow and oxygenation. Additionally, gravel can be prone to anaerobic bacteria growth if it is not properly cleaned and maintained.
How to setup prepare and maintain your plant substrate
Fertilization
As you plants take nutrients away from the soil you will need to replenish them by adding either liquid fertilizer or fertilizer sticks.
pH adjustment
It is important to continually monitor the ph. of your water. With soil it is easy to start seeing spike when the soils disintegrate into the water
Substrate replacement
at some point you will need to replace your substrate.
Temperature
The temperature of your water will also influence how fast your plants grow. Make sure to use a good quality aquarium heater
Creating a planted aquarium is not just an enjoyable hobby, but it can even be therapeutic. From the beginning stages of selecting what plants and fish to fill the tank with to finally seeing your planted aquarium come together, it is a fulfilling process. With each planted aquarium comes different challenges, and requires close attention if you intend for its inhabitants to remain healthy throughout their lifetime. Setting up a planted aquarium can take some time and effort, but the returns in terms of beauty and tranquility make it worthwhile. Arriving home after a long day to find yourself in front of a planted aquarium can be as calming as it is breathtaking!
How to select the best substrate for specific aquarium plants and tank setups
The best substrate for your aquarium plants is going to be similar to what they are used to in their natural environment. the more closely you can match’s where they grow naturally the healthier your plants are going to be.
How to create a nutrient-rich substrate
The best way to create a nitrate rich substrate is to start with a soil and add in specific nutrients based on what the plants need .
