base fertliser

[M0rph3us]

hi,
i just bought a big bucket substrate fertiliser.. do i need to wash it first then put into tank or i just put them under the gravel without doing anything to it?
and after that, do i plant straight away or let the tank run for a few days first?
then after planting, what shld i introduce first into the tank?
and any recommendation for a filter that is suitable for a 2ft?

thanks

[vinz]

No need to wash base fertiliser. Just put it under the gravel straight. May I ask what base fert did you buy?

You can plant straight away.

After planting, introduce nothing (I assume you're talking about fishes) for about 4 to 8 weeks. Let your tank cycle. You can add fishes when your ammonia and nitrites drop to zero. Read this article about planted tank setup from Chuck Gadd and also have a look around TheKrib.

As for filter, depends on your budget. For a 2 feet planted, you can use an economical internal filter or you can spend on more expensive external canister filters. External filters, in general, are easier to maintain, require less frequent maintainance and have more space for filter material. There are a number of threads on AQ about filters. Do a search.

For internal filters, you'll need to plant heavily and keep your bioload moderate to low. I'll recommend the Eheim internal filters for ease of maintainance. A 2006 or higher model will do.

For externals, I'll leave it to the other forumers.

[M0rph3us]

i bought HEXA root grow..