Looking to get some feedback on a planned rescape of my 25 gallon tank. I'm looking for a good alternative to Tropica Aquasoil. It would be my go to substrate, save for the fact I'd need so much of it and it goes for almost $60 / bag at the local store (Western Canada). As such, I'm looking for a good value alternative that will give my plants a good medium to root in, without costing an arm and a leg.
I've done some reading about sand capped organic topsoil, though there are a few things I'd be worried about. Probably the biggest concern I have is about the cory's and planned shrimp stirring up the substrate and exposing the soil. Is this a valid concern? As well how long would this last? I'd like to have the tank setup for a fairly long time, and if the soil will need to be replaced every couple months, I'd probably want to look elsewhere.
Alternatively I'd be fine paying for a branded planting substrate if it doesn't cost as much as the aqua soil and can give the same kind of benefits.
Any information would be greatly appreciated!
I've done some reading about sand capped organic topsoil, though there are a few things I'd be worried about. Probably the biggest concern I have is about the cory's and planned shrimp stirring up the substrate and exposing the soil. Is this a valid concern? As well how long would this last? I'd like to have the tank setup for a fairly long time, and if the soil will need to be replaced every couple months, I'd probably want to look elsewhere.
Alternatively I'd be fine paying for a branded planting substrate if it doesn't cost as much as the aqua soil and can give the same kind of benefits.
Any information would be greatly appreciated!