Breaking down and reestablishing a planted tank

[James0816]

I'm planning on graduating one of my test tanks this weekend. I want to break it down by completely draining it, clearing algea and changing the substrate from sand to a soil substrate like eco complete or something. Will doing this harm the plants in any way?

[bkw1982]

depends on the plant. Some plants, like crypts, don't like being moved and can melt. But overall you should be fine.

just keep the plants in a bucket while you make the change. Don't keep them without some light for to long(hours are fine, days not so good).