does anyone still use a layer of top soil for planted tanks

well people use them and i know there alot of info out there especially on mineralized mud used under sand. it is affective but takes some work because at first there can be some fluctuation in water quietly with it. again i've read some but not sereusly my feeling is that most people know that fluorite, eco and AS work so thay use it because it tens to less hassle

I've got topsoil in my 300. My vals are doing fine, and the water quality is stable. There was a massive diatom bloom soon after I set the tank up, but I suspect that had more to do with the chert gravel than with the topsoil.

I used actual woodland topsoil. If you buy soil, use the el cheapo brands such as Hyponex rather than the fancier stuff; they're lousy for gardens, but great for planted tanks.

i use some in my 55 gallon, no problems when setting up and none till now, only problem is my algae eater keeps getting to the soil part and stirring it up