Preparing subtrate and base fert

[lorba]

There are several threads on how thick, how much and type of base fert we should put in our tank, but i have yet to come across the many ways to use them. (Shoot me, as i havent do a search before posting ).

Will be helping a friend starting a tank, as i use nisso volcanic soil without base fert for my own, i have no experience on this. Below are some methods that i observed:

method 1:
base fert at bottom, top with thin layer of sand

method 2:
thin layer of sand at bottom, base fert, top with thin layer of sand

method 3:
mixture of sand and base fert at the bottom, top with thin layer of sand


anyone has the pro-and-corns for the methods discussed above? or do u have other ways of laying your substrate?

[jameshoftiezer]

I use a flourite base with flourish tabs inserted.
From what I have observed in you use an insert substrate you want a thin layer of substrate then the laterite(or other fert) in the bottom 1/3 mixed as necessary with substrate, then fill with substrate and top with 1/2" sand. When first applied you should expect the sand to work its way into the substrate. This is natural bu tto allow for a uniform surface, the top 1/2" must be sand or the substrate will start showing through.


James Hoftiezer

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[hwchoy]

lorba, whatever you put in the bottom, have at least ½ to 1-inch of gravel on top to keep the base fert from leaching out. I personally lean towards 1-inch, especially if you're the kind that couldn't leave a plant alone once you've planted it

[lorba]

some other consideratios:

- if i start to pull out deep rooted plants, the fert might leak.

- But on the other hand, if the top layer of sand is too thick, the roots might have problem reaching it.

- during rescaping, which might be frequent for some hobbyist, one may push the sand backward or sideward for reasons like creating slope etc. So the 1/2" in front might become lesser and in such case, may accidentally cause leaking too.