Substrate question.

[FasterShrimpo]

So I had an idea for a low tech planted tank, but I'm confronted with a wall of doubt. The question is, can I use topsoil as a substrate and if I can I will cover it with some nice dark, heavy sand (2inches of it). Also I've heard of people using kitty litter as a substrate and covering it up with sand or gravel, does it actually work?

 

[mak3mydae]

top soil as in gardening top soil? (lol) Gardening soil is full of nitrogen and phosphates and are detrimental to your tank. I wouldnt see why kitty litter wouldnt work.. but top soil and such is pretty darn bad for your tank. Theres something called ADA AquaSoil thats better,

 

[FasterShrimpo]

top soil as in gardening top soil? (lol) Gardening soil is full of nitrogen and phosphates and are detrimental to your tank. I wouldnt see why kitty litter wouldnt work.. but top soil and such is pretty darn bad for your tank. Theres something called ADA AquaSoil thats better,

Yea lol, but I'm looking for a cheap alternative and also can I use potting soil?

 

[JKC]

You definitely can. Just make sure it has no manure or other fertilizers. I just created a 10 gallon natural planted tank (NPT) using potting soil covered by gravel. Sand can be a problem, but some people seem to use it. Check out
http://www.theaquariumwiki.com/Walstad_method#Aims

 

[FasterShrimpo]

You definitely can. Just make sure it has no manure or other fertilizers. I just created a 10 gallon natural planted tank (NPT) using potting soil covered by gravel. Sand can be a problem, but some people seem to use it. Check out
http://www.theaquariumwiki.com/Walstad_method#Aims

Wow that was very useful, thank you!:clap:

 

[Ozymandias]

most people recomend against it becaus eof the problems you can have with algea because of the exess nitrogen and phosphates. what you might look into is mineralized soil you can make it your self but it takes a long time

here is links on the subject
http://www.fshfanatic.com/?p=84


some people have used cat litter with great successes. but thay used the unscented really cheap stuff (basically clay). you might look into other options to just look up substrates on this forum (there is a lot of discussions on it)

 

[JKC]

You're welcome! There's a list of recommended soils at the end of the article. I used Miracle Grow Organic Choice Potting Soil with great results.

 

[DeeDeeK]

Keep us informed! I'd love to read the details of your setup as you progress.

You might enjoy Walstad's book, which is mentioned in the article on Walstad Method. It's really fascinating if you have any real nerdy scientific curiosity - I love that book!

 

[flossyfloofloo]

cat litter is bad as it comtains a similar product to ammo chips which prevents the tank from cycling correctly

 

[Yoemen]

just use sand. If you want to go cheap, buy yourself some play sand and you will have no issues.