I want to add some rocks i found out side what should I do?
ATM I have them soaking in a sink of hot water to get the dirt off
ATM I have them soaking in a sink of hot water to get the dirt off
Want to add some rocks i found out side
- Thread starter andi872
- Start date
I boil everything that is nonliving (of course 
) before I put them in my tank. Not sure if it is necessary but its worked so far
) before I put them in my tank. Not sure if it is necessary but its worked so far
boil the rocks for 30 minutes in a covered turkey roaster. people are so scared of exploding rocks...i've been doing this for years, just don't put your face over the rocks and keep it covered, let cool a bit then pour cold water in the warm water to cool enough to handle. they aren't grenades.
echoofformless
Peat Advocate & Defender Of Snails
Be mindful of where you found them.
For the most part if they came from a random, out of the way area in the woods or a big backyard that is okay. The reasoning is to avoid rocks that may have been exposed to chemical pesticides or fertilizers.
The vinegar/acid test is good to ensure you aren't using very basic rocks. But just because a rock is slightly basic that doesn't make it unsafe if you are either trying to achieve a harder water chemistry (rift lake cichlids, livebearers) or your source water is crazy soft and needs some buffer.
I would just scrub them well in hot running water and then maybe keep them in a bucket for a few days where you change the water constantly and keep an eye on the rocks for any fungus or other nasties. If all seems well after a week add them.
For the most part if they came from a random, out of the way area in the woods or a big backyard that is okay. The reasoning is to avoid rocks that may have been exposed to chemical pesticides or fertilizers.
The vinegar/acid test is good to ensure you aren't using very basic rocks. But just because a rock is slightly basic that doesn't make it unsafe if you are either trying to achieve a harder water chemistry (rift lake cichlids, livebearers) or your source water is crazy soft and needs some buffer.
I would just scrub them well in hot running water and then maybe keep them in a bucket for a few days where you change the water constantly and keep an eye on the rocks for any fungus or other nasties. If all seems well after a week add them.
I did the same thing. Found some rocks in my back yard, tested with vinagar, scrubbed really well, soaked and rinsed with water a dozen times. Didn't boil. They have been in the tank for about 2 months now and no problems.