If I understand correctly (always an iffy proposition) the benefit of high CEC substrates (Flourite, Eco-Complete, fracted clay, etc.) it is that they have the ability to 'absorb' nutrients over time and that the roots of plants then have the ability to access these nutrients (minerals, ferts, whatever).
As I toy with various substrates and read more and more on the subject I have become curious if it is possible to 'pre-load' or 'soak' these substrates with fertilizers before inserting them in the tank.
Rather than dosing the water column (which is still needed in most cases with high growth anyways) and waiting for the high CEC substrate to 'absorb' nutrients over time is there a reason that it can't be done beforehand in order to start out with an already nutrient saturated substrate?
As I toy with various substrates and read more and more on the subject I have become curious if it is possible to 'pre-load' or 'soak' these substrates with fertilizers before inserting them in the tank.
Rather than dosing the water column (which is still needed in most cases with high growth anyways) and waiting for the high CEC substrate to 'absorb' nutrients over time is there a reason that it can't be done beforehand in order to start out with an already nutrient saturated substrate?