So I plan to set up my old 0.5g betta cube as a mineralized top soil tank, but instead of using Aaron Talbot's/Sean Murphy's original route to setting up a MTS tank (link below to said posting). http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/showthread.php?t=152027 Instead of using Potash, and Dolomite to...

Hi guys! I have been researching my tail off about low-tech tanks, but I still have a couple un-answered questions. I am hoping you can help. Is it okay to do a low tech set up with 1 1/4" eco-complete planted aquarium substrate on the bottom layered with 2" white sand on top? Should I use...

Hi. I just finished what I "think" is my first batch of MTS. I started out with 80 lbs. of topsoil from the local garden center. The soil went through 4 wet/dry cycles. I now have ~38 lbs. of soil and, after screening, ~20 lbs. of small rocks, leaves and twigs. The resultant sand like...

Hi, long time lurker, first time poster here. Question: Do I need to neutralize the [small amount of] calcium carbonate in coarse sand when I use it in combination with mineralized soil? I've been reading up on the mineralized soil technique many people here have used with great success and I...

After weeks of soaking top soil over and over again, I finally got to the point of adding the clay and I have now completed the mineralized top soil process. Anyway, here's some pics of my wood placement. I'd like to hear some comments before I fill the tank.

Here's a few pics to enjoy from one of my 40 gal tanks. Ludwigia glandulosa Rotala macrandra Hygro 'Sunset'