[zachary908]

I was wondering what everyone uses for substrate in their emmersed set ups.

I've seen people have good success with potting soil, and AS.

Which one is best and why?

I'm also open to other suggestions

Tank will likely run 2-4 bulb T5HO. I want the plants to grow as fast as possible. Will mostly be stems, crypts, and downoi.

 

[somewhatshocked]

There is no "best" - just personal opinion.

Substrates like Aquasoil that are nutrient rich are great. Mineralized topsoil is great. Eco-Complete with root tabs is great. The Fluval stuff is great when fertilized.

If you have cash burning a hole in your pocket? Get a fancy substrate like Aquasoil. If not, consider MTS. Middle of the road? I'd say an inert substrate (Eco, Flourite, whatever you prefer and can get your hands on) with root tabs.

 

[zachary908]

I guess what I meant was which is going to have more nutrients for plants right away? Will AS do any better than potting soil in an emmersed set up?

 

[somewhatshocked]

It would depend on the nutrient content of the potting soil and how quickly it broke down.

Even MTS would depend upon the minerals you use.

If you want something ready to go out of the bag, Aquasoil is a good choice.

 

[zachary908]

It would depend on the nutrient content of the potting soil and how quickly it broke down.

Even MTS would depend upon the minerals you use.

If you want something ready to go out of the bag, Aquasoil is a good choice.

Thanks! I might just put in some extra hours at work and go with Aquasoil, ha!

 

[jcgd]

I use cheap potting soil capped with fluorite or sand. Works perfectly fine. Fluval stratum also worked well for me.