If you are considering a new appearance for your planted tank setup, as an aquarium owner, you have a lot of choices to make. One crucial decision is determining the most suitable substrate for planted tanks. In this article, we will delve into the types of substrates that work best for planted tanks and which ones should be avoided. We will also examine some popular brands, allowing you to compare prices and reviews. Our preferred substrate for planted tanks is the ADA Aqua Soil Amazonia 9 Liter Normal Type. Overall, selecting the right substrate involves considering various factors, but our buyer\u2019s guide can assist you in finding the perfect one for your requirements. Let\u2019s explore further!<\/p>\n
Best Substrate for Planted Tanks Options:<\/h2>\nWhat is the best substrate for planted tanks?<\/h2>\nIf you\u2019re an experienced aquarist looking to max out your aquascape, we recommend ADA Aqua Soil Amazonia 9 Liter Normal Type<\/a>. It is nutrient-dense and will help your plants have a strong start. However, because of the nutrient density, it is also prone to promoting algae blooms and can take up to 8-weeks to settle out.<\/p>\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t![\"ADA](\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAxIDEiIHdpZHRoPSIxIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjEiIGRhdGEtdT0iaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZtLm1lZGlhLWFtYXpvbi5jb20lMkZpbWFnZXMlMkZJJTJGNTF6bk9sTVc2NUwuX1NMNTAwXy5qcGciIGRhdGEtdz0iMSIgZGF0YS1oPSIxIiBkYXRhLWJpcD0iIj48L3N2Zz4=\" "\\"Best")
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\n\t\t\t\t![\"Lasso](\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAxMDAgMTAwIiB3aWR0aD0iMTAwIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjEwMCIgZGF0YS11PSJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRmFxdWFyaXVtZnJpZW5kLmNvbSUyRndwLWNvbnRlbnQlMkZwbHVnaW5zJTJGbGFzc28lMkZhZG1pbiUyRmFzc2V0cyUyRmltYWdlcyUyRmxhc3NvLWljb24tYnJhZy5wbmciIGRhdGEtdz0iMTAwIiBkYXRhLWg9IjEwMCIgZGF0YS1iaXA9IiI+PC9zdmc+\" "\\"Best")
\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nIf you want a natural-looking tank with a substrate that won\u2019t cause as many initial issues, we love Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel \u2013 Stable Porous Natural Planted Aquarium Substrate<\/a>. It is a clay-based option that comes in a variety of colors to match your tank decorations. It doesn\u2019t need to be replaced over time, which is great! But it will need nutrient supplementation as it is an inert substrate.<\/p>\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t![\"Seachem](\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAxIDEiIHdpZHRoPSIxIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjEiIGRhdGEtdT0iaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZtLm1lZGlhLWFtYXpvbi5jb20lMkZpbWFnZXMlMkZJJTJGNDE3Vm5JaFNqVEwuanBnIiBkYXRhLXc9IjEiIGRhdGEtaD0iMSIgZGF0YS1iaXA9IiI+PC9zdmc+\" "\\"Best")
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\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nWhat is Substrate?<\/h2>\nSubstrate is a layer of material that sits on top of the fish tank\u2019s base. It can be made from natural or man-made materials. The substrate can range from gravel to sand to dirt to crushed coral. It is how your plants will root in your aquarium. It\u00a0can also have an effect on the water chemistry, filtration, and aesthetic appeal of your tank, making it a very important choice when setting up your tank. \u00c2\u00ad\u00c2\u00ad\u00c2\u00ad\u00c2\u00ad\u00c2\u00ad<\/p>\n
It is also home to bacteria bio-film and microbes which serve as a food source for shrimp. In the substrate, organic debris breaks down into nutrients that can be used by the plants, creating a happy little ecosystem.<\/p>\n
Bare Bottom versus Substrate<\/h2>\nA bare-bottom aquarium is an aquarium with no substrate. Pretty straightforward, right? They\u2019re easy to clean compared to planted tanks and just require water changes<\/a>. There is no substrate to trap uneaten food and fish poop, so the debris goes straight into the filter. If you do see waste building up on the bottom, simply vacuum out the detritus<\/a>.<\/p>\nBecause of their simplicity, we recommend bare-bottom tanks for breeding and quarantine tanks. They\u2019re easy to keep clean which means it is easier to control and maintain water conditions. The downside to bare bottom tanks is aesthetics; they don\u2019t look natural nor are they very pretty to view.<\/p>\n
Tanks with substrate at the bottom are much more aesthetically pleasing. The substrate also acts as a home for beneficial bacteria, which is crucial for the proper functioning of the nitrogen cycle<\/a> in your tank. Many fish species, especially bottom-feeders like Cory cats<\/a> and loaches<\/a>, also love interacting with substrate, as it mimics their behavior in the wild. Shrimp also love substrate because it typically slightly lowers the water\u2019s pH which is important in a shrimp tank<\/a>.<\/p>\nWhy Do I Need A Planted Tank Substrate?<\/h2>\nUsing a planted tank substrate starts your tank off on the right foot. Substrates for planted tanks introduce a lot of nutrients into your tank which is great for plants that draw their nutrients from the substrate (for example, Amazon swords<\/a>). It will help them grow larger and healthier faster than if they were on a non-planted tank substrate. Non-aquatic plants that you include in your tank, like pothos<\/a>, also fall into this category. However, if you\u2019re using plants like Java Fern<\/a>, Anubias, or floating plants that don\u2019t draw directly from the substrate, you\u2019re probably better off being a non-planted tank-specific substrate and spending your money elsewhere.<\/p>\n![\"planted](\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyMDQ4IDEzNjUiIHdpZHRoPSIyMDQ4IiBoZWlnaHQ9IjEzNjUiIGRhdGEtdT0iaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZhcXVhcml1bWZyaWVuZC5jb20lMkZ3cC1jb250ZW50JTJGdXBsb2FkcyUyRjIwMjElMkYxMiUyRkRlcG9zaXRwaG90b3NfMzg5Mjg4OTNfWEwtMjA0OHgxMzY1LmpwZyIgZGF0YS13PSIyMDQ4IiBkYXRhLWg9IjEzNjUiIGRhdGEtYmlwPSIiPjwvc3ZnPg==\" "\\"Best")
<\/figure>\nOne another thing to keep in mind with planted aquariums \u2013 at some point in time, typically 1-2 years, the root-feeding plants will draw out all of the nutrients in the soil. This means that you have to add back minerals and nutrients into the soil if you want to sustain the plants. Root tabs are a good way to do this. This guide to plant fertilizers<\/a> has a lot of helpful hints for finding the best option for your tank. Alternatively, you can uproot your heavy root feeders and switch over to water column feeding plants for a while.<\/p>\nUnderstanding Planted Tank Substrates<\/h2>\nLet\u2019s explore popular choices available today:<\/p>\n
Inert Substrates<\/h3>\nInert surfaces will not alter the chemical composition of your aquarium. They\u2019re also easy to manage. Replanting and shaping is easier with inert options. They do not alter water chemistry which means it will be easier to isolate your water column parameters (and make changes if you need to).<\/p>\n
\n- Clay-Based: <\/strong>These hard-baked clay substrates are durable and will last for a long period of time. They\u2019re also the simplest planted substrate media to maintain. If you want to put root plants in your aquarium, you\u2019ll need to fertilize this substrate choice.<\/li>\n
- Sand: <\/strong>Another inert option for your tank. In order to use sand in a planted tank, you will need to find a pretty coarse grain size so the plants have something to root around. This makes sand a challenging option in a planted tank.<\/li>\n
- Gravel-Based: <\/strong>Gravel is a very common type of aquarium substrate. Gravel comes in a variety of colors and shapes, does not offer any nutrients to your plant, and will not alter the water chemistry in your tank. Gravel is best used for fish-only tanks or planted tanks with water column feeding plants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Materialized Substrates<\/h3>\nMaterialized substrates tend to lower pH<\/a> and soften water. Examples of this type of substrate include ADA Amazonia, Fluval Stratum, Tropical aquarium soil, and Mr. Aqua aquarium soil. They\u2019re excellent for freshwater shrimp tanks<\/a> and root-based plant tanks. They\u2019re loaded with nutrients and will help your plants grow.<\/p>\npH Boosting Substrates\u00e2\u20ac\u2039\u00e2\u20ac\u2039<\/h3>\nAs the name suggests, these substrates will impact your pH. Crushed coral is a common example. This can be a great option for fish that require a high pH level like African Cichlids. Both aragonite and calcite-based substrates help to increase your pH consistently, eliminating the need for pH balancing treatments.<\/p>\n
However, these substrates are not a great choice for planted tanks. Cichlids are known to be plant destroyers, so an African cichlids tank is not a good option for a planted tank.<\/p>\n
Potting Soils versus Aquarium Soil<\/h2>\nThe right substrate will make a huge difference for your live plants in your aquarium. Some aquarists want to use garden soil for their planted tanks in order to save on the cost of expensive planted tank-specific substrates. While we don\u2019t recommend this route for beginners, it can be done with a lot of experimentation and careful practice.<\/p>\n
First, use organic soil. Non-organic soil can kill your fish. Low organic content (10-20%) dirt works best. Avoid soil that is densely packed with clay. An easy test for this is the softball test \u2013 if you can mold the dirt into softballs and roll them without them breaking into bits, you have clay-rich soil. If this is the only soil you have available, you could also add peat to break up the clay. Avoid compost-heavy soils (or use very sparingly).<\/p>\n
To set up your tank, use organic garden or topsoil as the base substrate. Then, add a sand layer on top to cap the dirt so it doesn\u2019t mix into your tank water.<\/p>\n
One word of warning \u2013 soil is a non-uniform, non-studied product, so figuring out your tank water parameter issues will be much trickier. One of the benefits of using commercial planted tank substrates is that they are widely studied, so there is a wealth of knowledge around how the soil will impact your water parameters.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u2039How to Choose the Best Substrate for Planted Tanks<\/h2>\nWhen choosing a tank\u2019s substrate or combination of substrates, keep the following things in mind:<\/p>\n
Complete vs Compound Aquarium Substrates<\/h3>\nAs the name suggests, you can add a complete substrate to your tank and immediately start planting. It does not require mixing or layering. It contains all of the nutrients for your plants and will support the plant\u2019s roots. <\/p>\n
Similarly, as the name suggests, a\u00a0compound aquarium substrate\u00a0requires you to add a different substrate type to create a viable growing environment for plants. Gravel is an example of a compound substrate. This is a more complicated route and not recommended for beginning aquarists because you will need to figure out how to layer or cap your substrate appropriately so it doesn\u2019t cloud your water.<\/p>\n
Appearance<\/h3>\nPick a product that creates a tank aesthetic that you like. The challenge comes in when you want to use a substrate that isn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t ideal for rooting plants, like sand or soil. How should you handle that situation?<\/p>\n
You have a number of options. First, some substrates come in fortified versions that make them more suitable for planting. That is the easiest path forward if available.<\/p>\n
You could also do a gradient of the substrate, where you hide the planted tank substrate towards the back of your tank and use your aesthetically pleasing substrate in the front. Plant your plants in the rear of the tank. Everyone is happy!<\/p>\n
Lastly, you can layer your substrates and use a cap. Use the planted tank substrate as the bottom layer and cap it with a preferred product. However, if you want to create ground cover, this probably won\u2019t work.<\/p>\n
Particle Size<\/h3>\nSubstrates come in different sizes ranging from coarse rocks to fine sand. Particle size can affect your filtration systems. Some fish species prefer certain types of substrate (for example, loaches<\/a> like fine sand). Smaller-sized particles can clog filtration systems so this is something you will need to account for.<\/p>\nPrice and Volume Required<\/h3>\nSubstrates for planted tanks are typically more expensive than standard aquarium substrates like gravel and sand. The general rule of thumb for calculating the amount of required substrate is one pound of substrate per gallon of water. However, planted substrates often require more (typically double the amount) because they compact down so much. Therefore, for a 20-gallon tank, you will require at least 20-gallons of planted tank substrate, potentially up to 40 pounds depending on your aquascaping plans.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re using rooted plants or trying to create hills and valleys in your aquascape<\/a>, you want at least 2 to 3 inches of substrate.<\/p>\nSubstrate Longevity<\/h3>\nBecause substrate costs can be pretty expensive, it is important to factor in substrate longevity. Not all substrates will last the same amount of time. Inert substrates like gravel and sand don\u2019t break down nor need to be refreshed or replaced but they also don\u2019t provide any nutritional value for your plants.<\/p>\n
Unless you\u2019re using a completely inert substrate, specialty substrates for planted tanks will start to be less nutritional to your plants over time. This will usually take between one to three years before you need to start refreshing substrate or supplementing with root tabs. Additionally, you might need to add substrate to replace substrate that is lost to cleaning (gravel vacuums, etc.). All substrates compact down over time, and organic substrates will often decompose over time.<\/p>\n
Required Maintenance<\/h3>\nThe most challenging aquarium substrates are sand and planted aquarium soils. Gravel vacuums and filters suck up the substrate along with the waste products, so your volume of substate will slowly need to be replaced over time. One workaround is covering filter intakes, but this means more waste will stay in your tank which negates the purpose of cleaning. Sand and plant-based substrates also tend to look messier because they don\u2019t hide waste as well as gravel tanks.<\/p>\n
Gravel substrates are the easiest choice over time. Additionally, gravel is excellent at supporting healthy bacterial colonies, which is good for your water parameters. Gravel tanks often look the cleanest because waste blends more easily into gravel.<\/p>\n
Best Substrate for Planted Tanks Options<\/h2>\nSeachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel \u2013 Stable Porous Natural Planted Aquarium Substrate<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nSeachem Flourite\u00a0is a clay-based substrate. One of the biggest benefits is that it does not have to be replaced over time. This soil is available in a range of colors and grain types, so you can select the one that complements your desired appearance. It won\u2019t change the chemistry of your tank, making it simpler to maintain.<\/p>\n
One disadvantage of Seachem Flourite is that it is not nutrient-dense, like some of the other choices on this list. The benefit is that you\u2019re less likely to have algae problems in the first few months of using the substrate. Because of the sharp corners on this substrate, it is not recommended for bottom-dwelling fish species.<\/p>\n
Overall, Seachem Flourite is a beautiful, natural-looking soil for planted aquariums with water column feeding plants.<\/p>\n
Features:<\/p>\n
\n- Porous clay gravel<\/li>\n
- Organic<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Pros:<\/p>\n
\n- Long-lasting<\/li>\n
- Available in variety of colors<\/li>\n
- Doesn\u2019t impact water chemistry<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cons:<\/p>\n
\n- Can cloud aquarium water at first<\/li>\n
- Sharp corners not great for bottom dwellers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
CaribSea Eco-Complete 20-Pound Planted Aquarium, Black<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t![\"CaribSea](\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAxIDEiIHdpZHRoPSIxIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjEiIGRhdGEtdT0iaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZtLm1lZGlhLWFtYXpvbi5jb20lMkZpbWFnZXMlMkZJJTJGNTFZZGZkZGl0b0wuX1NMNTAwXy5qcGciIGRhdGEtdz0iMSIgZGF0YS1oPSIxIiBkYXRhLWJpcD0iIj48L3N2Zz4=\" "\\"Best")
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\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nCaribSea Eco-Complete is a great option for planted aquariums. It is easy to use, has a particle size that is compatible with most filtration systems and is easy to vacuum when it gets dirty. It is shipped damp because it contains live bacteria which help to kickstart plant growth and nitrogen cycles when starting a new tank.<\/p>\n
Because of this bacteria, don\u2019t rinse the gravel before using it, or else you will wash away all of the good bacteria!\u00a0<\/p>\n
Features:<\/p>\n
\n- Contains beneficial bacteria to jumpstart your tank<\/li>\n
- Won\u2019t cloud your water<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Pros:<\/p>\n
\n- Contains 25+ minerals to nourish aquatic plants<\/li>\n
- No rinsing required<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cons:<\/p>\n
\n- Bags sometimes break during shipping, which results in bacteria loss<\/li>\n
- Expensive for large tanks<\/li>\n
- Not recommended for layering or mixing with other products<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Mr. Aqua Fine Pet Habitat Water Plant Soil<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t![\"Mr.](\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAxIDEiIHdpZHRoPSIxIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjEiIGRhdGEtdT0iaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZtLm1lZGlhLWFtYXpvbi5jb20lMkZpbWFnZXMlMkZJJTJGNTEzQUxXM09vMUwuX1NMNTAwXy5qcGciIGRhdGEtdz0iMSIgZGF0YS1oPSIxIiBkYXRhLWJpcD0iIj48L3N2Zz4=\" "\\"Best")
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\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nMr Aqua Aquarium Soil\u00a0is similar to ADA Aquasoil but contains less ammonia. It has a porous, granular structure that allows for water exchange. It will impact your water parameters by softening water and lowering the pH.<\/p>\n
It is a good option for a shrimp tank or slightly-acidic community tank. The bag size is ideal for smaller tanks and doesn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t come in larger sizes, so if you have a bigger aquarium, you\u2019re going to need to purchase a lot of bags. Additionally, this substrate will compact and decompose over time and may need replacing every few years.<\/p>\n
We think it is an excellent, more affordable alternative to ADA quality soil. It\u2019s difficult to come by locally, but the link I\u2019ve provided above makes it a lot easier to get.<\/p>\n
Features:<\/p>\n
\n- Porous pellets<\/li>\n
- Slowly releases fertilizer to your water over 16 months<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Pros:<\/p>\n
\n- Porous pellets encourage good aquarium bacteria colonies<\/li>\n
- Less ammonia means easier to cycle if just getting started<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cons:<\/p>\n
\n- Decomposes over time<\/li>\n
- Only available in small bags<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
ADA Aqua Soil Amazonia 9 Liter Normal Type<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nThis is the most famous planted tank substrate, used by expert aquascapers all over the world. It impacts water chemistry by lowering the hardness and pH levels to make the water slightly acidic. Slightly acidic water is ideal for most plants and fish species.<\/p>\n
This substrate contains a lot of ammonia and phosphate. That means it will help your plants grow quickly but the nutrient profile might be excessive, leading to algae outbreaks and cloudy water. To counteract this, you can perform lots of water changes during the 8-week establishment period for this substrate. Some aquarists get around this by doing a planted tank dry start<\/a>.<\/p>\nThis substrate breaks down over time, requiring that you refresh it every 1-2 years. Given the high ammonia content, this can be challenging for adding new substrate to the tank and not triggering nitrogen cycle issues. This is an expensive substrate that we recommend for more experienced aquarium keepers.<\/p>\n
Features:<\/p>\n
\n- Makes aquarium water mildly acidic<\/li>\n
- Requires 8-week establishment period<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Pros:<\/p>\n
\n- Extremely reputable brand and world-known product<\/li>\n
- Nutrient-dense soil for planted tanks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cons:<\/p>\n
\n- Expensive<\/li>\n
- High ammonia levels make soil replacement more challenging<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum, For Fish Tanks<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t![\"Fluval](\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAxIDEiIHdpZHRoPSIxIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjEiIGRhdGEtdT0iaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZtLm1lZGlhLWFtYXpvbi5jb20lMkZpbWFnZXMlMkZJJTJGNTFVUFFuVmFRekwuX1NMNTAwXy5qcGciIGRhdGEtdz0iMSIgZGF0YS1oPSIxIiBkYXRhLWJpcD0iIj48L3N2Zz4=\" "\\"Best")
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\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nFluval Stratum\u00a0is a specialty substrate designed for shrimp tanks. Its smooth surface is great for shrimp and soft-bellied bottom-feeders. It\u2019s made of volcanic soil, which is a porous material that can function as the home to lots of helpful bacteria. It contains no synthetic binders or coatings. It naturally lowers the pH of your tank, which is ideal for most freshwater plants and fish species.<\/p>\n
This substrate is lightweight and easily sucked up by\u00a0gravel siphons<\/a>. Use care when cleaning the gravel bed.<\/p>\nBe gentle with this substrate and try not to place it under heavy rocks<\/a> or driftwood. This substrate can break easily and is less functional once it breaks.<\/p>\nFeatures:<\/p>\n
\n- Natural Volcanic based substrate<\/li>\n
- Specially designed for shrimp tanks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Pros:<\/p>\n
\n- Creates neutral to mildly acidic pH<\/li>\n
- Promotes natural plant growth<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cons:<\/p>\n
\n- Lightweight \u00e2\u20ac\u201c easy to siphon away when cleaning<\/li>\n
- Will break under light pressure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
UP AQUA Sand for Aquatic Plants<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n <\/p>\n
If you\u2019re an experienced aquarist looking to max out your aquascape, we recommend ADA Aqua Soil Amazonia 9 Liter Normal Type<\/a>. It is nutrient-dense and will help your plants have a strong start. However, because of the nutrient density, it is also prone to promoting algae blooms and can take up to 8-weeks to settle out.<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t If you want a natural-looking tank with a substrate that won\u2019t cause as many initial issues, we love Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel \u2013 Stable Porous Natural Planted Aquarium Substrate<\/a>. It is a clay-based option that comes in a variety of colors to match your tank decorations. It doesn\u2019t need to be replaced over time, which is great! But it will need nutrient supplementation as it is an inert substrate.<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t Substrate is a layer of material that sits on top of the fish tank\u2019s base. It can be made from natural or man-made materials. The substrate can range from gravel to sand to dirt to crushed coral. It is how your plants will root in your aquarium. It\u00a0can also have an effect on the water chemistry, filtration, and aesthetic appeal of your tank, making it a very important choice when setting up your tank. \u00c2\u00ad\u00c2\u00ad\u00c2\u00ad\u00c2\u00ad\u00c2\u00ad<\/p>\n It is also home to bacteria bio-film and microbes which serve as a food source for shrimp. In the substrate, organic debris breaks down into nutrients that can be used by the plants, creating a happy little ecosystem.<\/p>\n A bare-bottom aquarium is an aquarium with no substrate. Pretty straightforward, right? They\u2019re easy to clean compared to planted tanks and just require water changes<\/a>. There is no substrate to trap uneaten food and fish poop, so the debris goes straight into the filter. If you do see waste building up on the bottom, simply vacuum out the detritus<\/a>.<\/p>\n Because of their simplicity, we recommend bare-bottom tanks for breeding and quarantine tanks. They\u2019re easy to keep clean which means it is easier to control and maintain water conditions. The downside to bare bottom tanks is aesthetics; they don\u2019t look natural nor are they very pretty to view.<\/p>\n Tanks with substrate at the bottom are much more aesthetically pleasing. The substrate also acts as a home for beneficial bacteria, which is crucial for the proper functioning of the nitrogen cycle<\/a> in your tank. Many fish species, especially bottom-feeders like Cory cats<\/a> and loaches<\/a>, also love interacting with substrate, as it mimics their behavior in the wild. Shrimp also love substrate because it typically slightly lowers the water\u2019s pH which is important in a shrimp tank<\/a>.<\/p>\n Using a planted tank substrate starts your tank off on the right foot. Substrates for planted tanks introduce a lot of nutrients into your tank which is great for plants that draw their nutrients from the substrate (for example, Amazon swords<\/a>). It will help them grow larger and healthier faster than if they were on a non-planted tank substrate. Non-aquatic plants that you include in your tank, like pothos<\/a>, also fall into this category. However, if you\u2019re using plants like Java Fern<\/a>, Anubias, or floating plants that don\u2019t draw directly from the substrate, you\u2019re probably better off being a non-planted tank-specific substrate and spending your money elsewhere.<\/p>\n One another thing to keep in mind with planted aquariums \u2013 at some point in time, typically 1-2 years, the root-feeding plants will draw out all of the nutrients in the soil. This means that you have to add back minerals and nutrients into the soil if you want to sustain the plants. Root tabs are a good way to do this. This guide to plant fertilizers<\/a> has a lot of helpful hints for finding the best option for your tank. Alternatively, you can uproot your heavy root feeders and switch over to water column feeding plants for a while.<\/p>\n Let\u2019s explore popular choices available today:<\/p>\n Inert surfaces will not alter the chemical composition of your aquarium. They\u2019re also easy to manage. Replanting and shaping is easier with inert options. They do not alter water chemistry which means it will be easier to isolate your water column parameters (and make changes if you need to).<\/p>\n Materialized substrates tend to lower pH<\/a> and soften water. Examples of this type of substrate include ADA Amazonia, Fluval Stratum, Tropical aquarium soil, and Mr. Aqua aquarium soil. They\u2019re excellent for freshwater shrimp tanks<\/a> and root-based plant tanks. They\u2019re loaded with nutrients and will help your plants grow.<\/p>\n As the name suggests, these substrates will impact your pH. Crushed coral is a common example. This can be a great option for fish that require a high pH level like African Cichlids. Both aragonite and calcite-based substrates help to increase your pH consistently, eliminating the need for pH balancing treatments.<\/p>\n However, these substrates are not a great choice for planted tanks. Cichlids are known to be plant destroyers, so an African cichlids tank is not a good option for a planted tank.<\/p>\n The right substrate will make a huge difference for your live plants in your aquarium. Some aquarists want to use garden soil for their planted tanks in order to save on the cost of expensive planted tank-specific substrates. While we don\u2019t recommend this route for beginners, it can be done with a lot of experimentation and careful practice.<\/p>\n First, use organic soil. Non-organic soil can kill your fish. Low organic content (10-20%) dirt works best. Avoid soil that is densely packed with clay. An easy test for this is the softball test \u2013 if you can mold the dirt into softballs and roll them without them breaking into bits, you have clay-rich soil. If this is the only soil you have available, you could also add peat to break up the clay. Avoid compost-heavy soils (or use very sparingly).<\/p>\n To set up your tank, use organic garden or topsoil as the base substrate. Then, add a sand layer on top to cap the dirt so it doesn\u2019t mix into your tank water.<\/p>\n One word of warning \u2013 soil is a non-uniform, non-studied product, so figuring out your tank water parameter issues will be much trickier. One of the benefits of using commercial planted tank substrates is that they are widely studied, so there is a wealth of knowledge around how the soil will impact your water parameters.<\/p>\n When choosing a tank\u2019s substrate or combination of substrates, keep the following things in mind:<\/p>\n As the name suggests, you can add a complete substrate to your tank and immediately start planting. It does not require mixing or layering. It contains all of the nutrients for your plants and will support the plant\u2019s roots. <\/p>\n Similarly, as the name suggests, a\u00a0compound aquarium substrate\u00a0requires you to add a different substrate type to create a viable growing environment for plants. Gravel is an example of a compound substrate. This is a more complicated route and not recommended for beginning aquarists because you will need to figure out how to layer or cap your substrate appropriately so it doesn\u2019t cloud your water.<\/p>\n Pick a product that creates a tank aesthetic that you like. The challenge comes in when you want to use a substrate that isn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t ideal for rooting plants, like sand or soil. How should you handle that situation?<\/p>\n You have a number of options. First, some substrates come in fortified versions that make them more suitable for planting. That is the easiest path forward if available.<\/p>\n You could also do a gradient of the substrate, where you hide the planted tank substrate towards the back of your tank and use your aesthetically pleasing substrate in the front. Plant your plants in the rear of the tank. Everyone is happy!<\/p>\n Lastly, you can layer your substrates and use a cap. Use the planted tank substrate as the bottom layer and cap it with a preferred product. However, if you want to create ground cover, this probably won\u2019t work.<\/p>\n Substrates come in different sizes ranging from coarse rocks to fine sand. Particle size can affect your filtration systems. Some fish species prefer certain types of substrate (for example, loaches<\/a> like fine sand). Smaller-sized particles can clog filtration systems so this is something you will need to account for.<\/p>\n Substrates for planted tanks are typically more expensive than standard aquarium substrates like gravel and sand. The general rule of thumb for calculating the amount of required substrate is one pound of substrate per gallon of water. However, planted substrates often require more (typically double the amount) because they compact down so much. Therefore, for a 20-gallon tank, you will require at least 20-gallons of planted tank substrate, potentially up to 40 pounds depending on your aquascaping plans.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re using rooted plants or trying to create hills and valleys in your aquascape<\/a>, you want at least 2 to 3 inches of substrate.<\/p>\n Because substrate costs can be pretty expensive, it is important to factor in substrate longevity. Not all substrates will last the same amount of time. Inert substrates like gravel and sand don\u2019t break down nor need to be refreshed or replaced but they also don\u2019t provide any nutritional value for your plants.<\/p>\n Unless you\u2019re using a completely inert substrate, specialty substrates for planted tanks will start to be less nutritional to your plants over time. This will usually take between one to three years before you need to start refreshing substrate or supplementing with root tabs. Additionally, you might need to add substrate to replace substrate that is lost to cleaning (gravel vacuums, etc.). All substrates compact down over time, and organic substrates will often decompose over time.<\/p>\n The most challenging aquarium substrates are sand and planted aquarium soils. Gravel vacuums and filters suck up the substrate along with the waste products, so your volume of substate will slowly need to be replaced over time. One workaround is covering filter intakes, but this means more waste will stay in your tank which negates the purpose of cleaning. Sand and plant-based substrates also tend to look messier because they don\u2019t hide waste as well as gravel tanks.<\/p>\n Gravel substrates are the easiest choice over time. Additionally, gravel is excellent at supporting healthy bacterial colonies, which is good for your water parameters. Gravel tanks often look the cleanest because waste blends more easily into gravel.<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t Seachem Flourite\u00a0is a clay-based substrate. One of the biggest benefits is that it does not have to be replaced over time. This soil is available in a range of colors and grain types, so you can select the one that complements your desired appearance. It won\u2019t change the chemistry of your tank, making it simpler to maintain.<\/p>\n One disadvantage of Seachem Flourite is that it is not nutrient-dense, like some of the other choices on this list. The benefit is that you\u2019re less likely to have algae problems in the first few months of using the substrate. Because of the sharp corners on this substrate, it is not recommended for bottom-dwelling fish species.<\/p>\n Overall, Seachem Flourite is a beautiful, natural-looking soil for planted aquariums with water column feeding plants.<\/p>\n Features:<\/p>\n Pros:<\/p>\n Cons:<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t CaribSea Eco-Complete is a great option for planted aquariums. It is easy to use, has a particle size that is compatible with most filtration systems and is easy to vacuum when it gets dirty. It is shipped damp because it contains live bacteria which help to kickstart plant growth and nitrogen cycles when starting a new tank.<\/p>\n Because of this bacteria, don\u2019t rinse the gravel before using it, or else you will wash away all of the good bacteria!\u00a0<\/p>\n Features:<\/p>\n Pros:<\/p>\n Cons:<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t Mr Aqua Aquarium Soil\u00a0is similar to ADA Aquasoil but contains less ammonia. It has a porous, granular structure that allows for water exchange. It will impact your water parameters by softening water and lowering the pH.<\/p>\n It is a good option for a shrimp tank or slightly-acidic community tank. The bag size is ideal for smaller tanks and doesn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t come in larger sizes, so if you have a bigger aquarium, you\u2019re going to need to purchase a lot of bags. Additionally, this substrate will compact and decompose over time and may need replacing every few years.<\/p>\n We think it is an excellent, more affordable alternative to ADA quality soil. It\u2019s difficult to come by locally, but the link I\u2019ve provided above makes it a lot easier to get.<\/p>\n Features:<\/p>\n Pros:<\/p>\n Cons:<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t This is the most famous planted tank substrate, used by expert aquascapers all over the world. It impacts water chemistry by lowering the hardness and pH levels to make the water slightly acidic. Slightly acidic water is ideal for most plants and fish species.<\/p>\n This substrate contains a lot of ammonia and phosphate. That means it will help your plants grow quickly but the nutrient profile might be excessive, leading to algae outbreaks and cloudy water. To counteract this, you can perform lots of water changes during the 8-week establishment period for this substrate. Some aquarists get around this by doing a planted tank dry start<\/a>.<\/p>\n This substrate breaks down over time, requiring that you refresh it every 1-2 years. Given the high ammonia content, this can be challenging for adding new substrate to the tank and not triggering nitrogen cycle issues. This is an expensive substrate that we recommend for more experienced aquarium keepers.<\/p>\n Features:<\/p>\n Pros:<\/p>\n Cons:<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t Fluval Stratum\u00a0is a specialty substrate designed for shrimp tanks. Its smooth surface is great for shrimp and soft-bellied bottom-feeders. It\u2019s made of volcanic soil, which is a porous material that can function as the home to lots of helpful bacteria. It contains no synthetic binders or coatings. It naturally lowers the pH of your tank, which is ideal for most freshwater plants and fish species.<\/p>\n This substrate is lightweight and easily sucked up by\u00a0gravel siphons<\/a>. Use care when cleaning the gravel bed.<\/p>\n Be gentle with this substrate and try not to place it under heavy rocks<\/a> or driftwood. This substrate can break easily and is less functional once it breaks.<\/p>\n Features:<\/p>\n Pros:<\/p>\n Cons:<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nWhat is Substrate?<\/h2>\n
Bare Bottom versus Substrate<\/h2>\n
Why Do I Need A Planted Tank Substrate?<\/h2>\n
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Understanding Planted Tank Substrates<\/h2>\n
Inert Substrates<\/h3>\n
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Materialized Substrates<\/h3>\n
pH Boosting Substrates\u00e2\u20ac\u2039\u00e2\u20ac\u2039<\/h3>\n
Potting Soils versus Aquarium Soil<\/h2>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u2039How to Choose the Best Substrate for Planted Tanks<\/h2>\n
Complete vs Compound Aquarium Substrates<\/h3>\n
Appearance<\/h3>\n
Particle Size<\/h3>\n
Price and Volume Required<\/h3>\n
Substrate Longevity<\/h3>\n
Required Maintenance<\/h3>\n
Best Substrate for Planted Tanks Options<\/h2>\n
Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel \u2013 Stable Porous Natural Planted Aquarium Substrate<\/a><\/h3>\n
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CaribSea Eco-Complete 20-Pound Planted Aquarium, Black<\/a><\/h3>\n
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Mr. Aqua Fine Pet Habitat Water Plant Soil<\/a><\/h3>\n
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ADA Aqua Soil Amazonia 9 Liter Normal Type<\/a><\/h3>\n
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Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum, For Fish Tanks<\/a><\/h3>\n
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UP AQUA Sand for Aquatic Plants<\/a><\/h3>\n