Proper preparation of the soil before placing in the aquarium

The proper preparation of the soil is the first step towards building a healthy aquarium. This important step creates the conditions for a healthy environment that allows beneficial bacteria to proliferate and plants to take root properly. An ecosystem in your aquarium that is balanced and able to support life depends on well-prepared soil.

It’s critical to select the appropriate soil type for your fish and aquatic plants. The texture, nutrient content, and composition of the soil all have a big impact on the aquarium’s general health. It will be worthwhile to invest the time in meticulous soil preparation in the long run, as it will support strong plant growth and preserve water quality.

It’s crucial to clean and care for the soil properly before adding it to your aquarium. Through this process, any undesired particles or chemicals that might endanger the people living in your tank are removed. You can provide fish and plants with a stable and supportive environment by taking care of these little things.

Step Description
1. Choose the Right Soil Select soil that suits your aquarium plants and fish. Make sure it"s free from harmful chemicals.
2. Rinse the Soil Thoroughly rinse the soil with clean water to remove dust and impurities.
3. Layer the Soil Spread a base layer of nutrient-rich soil, then cover with a layer of gravel or sand for stability.
4. Avoid Compaction Gently spread the soil to avoid compacting it, which can hinder plant growth.
5. Gradual Slope Create a gentle slope from the back to the front of the tank for better depth perception.
6. Moistening Lightly moisten the soil before planting to help roots take hold more easily.

Washing

The initial and most crucial phase of soil preparation work. You must completely wash away any unwanted impurities, regardless of quantity, or you risk causing unnecessary issues for your charges. Purchasing soil from a specialized company is advised as it will reduce the amount of time and effort required for its preparation. Therefore, find out if there is a substrate with the parameters you require before purchasing an aquarium and equipment from an online retailer.

Why is this necessary:

  • Increasing the service life of the filter. Yes, modern water filtration equipment can cope with a large amount of contaminants. But do you want to clean the filter every week, since it gets clogged with silt, sand and organic impurities every time?
  • Improving photosynthesis. In order for plants to process carbon dioxide into oxygen, they need light. But if a layer of contaminants accumulates on their surface, the process of photosynthesis will be significantly slowed down. And manually cleaning plants from silt every week is not the best pastime, you must agree;
  • Clean water. The soil, especially collected from a pond, may contain a large number of small particles of sand, silt, organic contaminants, eggs, etc.d. If you put it like this, the water will immediately become cloudy. Yes, over time all the particles will settle, some will be cleaned by the filter, but as soon as you decide to clean the aquarium or your fish will "rummage" in the soil in search of food – everything will repeat. It will be very disappointing if you decided to buy an aquarium in Moscow with delivery, spent a lot of time and effort on its arrangement, and the constant plaque on the glass will not allow you to enjoy the fruits of your work.

How to do it:

  1. Choose a container for washing. This can be a bucket, a large bowl, a saucepan or any other container of the required volume. It is advisable not to use enameled or chromed ones, since during the process of washing the soil the metal (or enamel) will be badly scratched;
  2. Divide the substrate into small parts. No need to try to wash 20 kg of soil at once. Divide it into parts of 3-5 kg, so you can process it more thoroughly. Yes, it will take more time, but almost all contaminants will be removed;
  3. Mix the substrate and change the water. You need to do this until it becomes completely transparent. Mix the soil thoroughly, throughout the entire volume of the selected container, so that no dirt accumulates in the lower part.

You can move on to the next phase of work as soon as the entire substrate has been cleaned (the water will be spotless).

Laying the soil and starting the aquarium

In order to prevent the soil layer from being seen through the front glass, I placed the soil in the aquarium with a tiny indentation from it.They recommend at least two to three centimeters of soil, but I got more.

Approximately 5 cm at the front and 7 cm at the rear wall. Later on, I realized that I had erred in this instance. It was necessary to lightly tamp and moisten the soil. I covered the soil with a layer of washed and coarsely sifted sand from the Gulf of Finland shore; readers interested in learning more about my preparation process can click this link.

Disinfection

Removal of undesirable and harmful bacteria, fungi, parasite eggs, etc. In the event that you have gathered substrate in the pond, this is particularly crucial.

Why is this necessary:

  • Fewer parasites. Parasite eggs are usually well protected from various external influences and can remain viable for a long time. Disinfection is the only way to get rid of this problem. Yes, it is impossible to completely protect your charges from parasites, but you need to make every effort;
  • Lower probability of water "blooming". Soil is a real paradise for algae. Tens and hundreds of thousands of these microorganisms accumulate on its particles, which, under suitable conditions, can multiply so intensively that they color the water. And these are not only "aesthetic" problems, but also quite real ones, ranging from the absorption of all nutrients for plants to provoking fish and shrimp diseases;
  • Fewer diseases of aquarium inhabitants. It is unlikely that you will be able to find soil collected in the natural habitat of exotic fish species. And if it is obtained from completely different bodies of water – and the microorganisms will be different. Your fish simply do not have immunity to them.

Disinfecting the soil is a crucial step in the process. No matter where you removed the substrate, you must disinfect it before adding it to the aquarium.

How to do it:

  1. Choose a disinfection method. The simplest and most popular is calcination. Consists of heating the substrate to a temperature above + 100 ° C in the oven. The second is boiling in water for 15-20 minutes. The third is using a 10% chlorine solution. Which one is right for you – choose for yourself, they are equally effective. Only in the latter case, you will have to put in more effort to remove all the chlorine from the substrate after disinfection;
  2. Do not rush. Most microorganisms will die quickly, but parasite eggs can remain viable even with short-term heating to a temperature above +100°C. Therefore, either choose calcination (temperature above +100°C) or long boiling (at least 15 minutes);
  3. Cool the substrate, rinse and dry again. After disinfection, in some cases, small particles may appear (in small quantities), which should be removed. And after disinfection with a chlorine solution, rinsing is mandatory.

Types of soil

Natural

Natural materials that have undergone no processing other than disinfection fall into this category. This category comprises mollusk shells, quartz, crushed stone, gravel, sand, and pebbles. Add some baked clay here as well occasionally.

Due to the extremely poor quality of this substrate—it contains no organic matter at all—it will take the thickets at least six months to accumulate decomposed food scraps and excrement that they can eat. To improve fertility, you can use specialized fertilizers in the form of tablets and solutions. To avoid overfertilizing the environment, it is imperative to carefully calculate the concentration.

Chemically treated

These granules are produced by a protracted process of natural material transformation. The properties that the soil acquires as a result of its mechanical and chemical treatment are significantly different from those of the natural material. Sawdust or coconut fiber that has been chemically treated and mechanically crushed is an example of this type of substrate.

Artificial

Certain companies manufacture unique synthetic blends. These materials work better in aquariums with herbs and shrimp. Nutrient complexes are typically composed of a combination of solid ingredients and fertilizers that work together to bind particles together and steadily fix plant roots.

Preparation for restarting

It is worthwhile to first put the fish in a fresh container. You can transfer the aquarium’s water into an extra "jar" and take the fish out if it’s in good condition. It’s important to keep an eye on their behavior at first.

See also: Many people are unaware of the edible nature of the black portion of a shrimp’s head. A Hanoi-based specialist responded to the query.

In the event that the old water is not suitable, you must settle the necessary volume beforehand. Once it’s heated to a pet-friendly temperature, you can fill an additional aquarium.

You can add the AquaSafe preparation and fill it with regular water for an emergency restart. It enables you to purge it of dangerous pollutants, making the atmosphere secure for living things.

After that, the plants are carefully taken out of the ground without causing any harm to the root system. They are sent to an extra container after being cleaned under running water. It is advised to boil the soil for a few minutes or give it a thorough rinse in hot water (boiling paint-covered soil will cause cracks). To eradicate any potential fungus, salt water is used to wash every piece of décor.

You can’t have healthy fish and plants unless the soil is properly prepared before being added to the aquarium. This procedure entails sanitizing and treating the substrate to get rid of contaminants, making sure it has the proper nutrients, and arranging it to encourage water flow and plant growth. Correct soil preparation lays the groundwork for a healthy aquatic ecosystem by preventing issues such as cloudiness, algae growth, and poor plant development.

Nutritious

One major factor is the soil’s nutritional content. Given that the majority of plants derive their nutrients from the nutrient substrate. You can add specific substrates or fertilizer tablets to the soil to make it more fertile.

Tetra ActiveSubstrate (Tetra)

This natural substrate is meant for plants. It is made up of granules that give algae’s root system a favorable environment. The soil’s porosity allows a lot of helpful bacteria to colonize it. Among its principal benefits are the following:

  • promotes the active growth of beneficial bacteria;
  • prevents water pollution with organic matter;
  • reduces the load on the filter;
  • prevents root rot;
  • provides the necessary nutrients to the roots of algae;
  • improves water circulation;
  • has an attractive appearance.

In Moscow and St. Petersburg, the average price of the product is 550 rubles for a 3-liter package.

JBL AquaBasis

All living things rely on this soil to supply them with nutrients. It doesn’t release any toxins or lessen the hardness of the water. Beneficial bacteria proliferate on the soil’s surface due to its porosity. The producer of soil is Germany. Among its benefits are:

  • good growth of the root system of plants;
  • excellent filtration on the surface;
  • does not harm the antennae of fish crawling along the bottom.

This product has no negative aspects.

In Moscow and St. Petersburg, a 1.5-liter package costs 405 rubles.

Fluval

Among its benefits are:

  • providing a safe environment for underwater inhabitants;
  • stimulation of plant growth;
  • neutralization of acidity.

Their structure is porous and light. They don’t have lumps in them, and they make the bottom fish and shrimp happy. Minerals and beneficial microelements are abundant in fluval soil.

The average price per 2 kg in Moscow and St. Petersburg is between 580 and 1500 rubles. Soil percentage: 2.5–3.5 mm.

Procedure

Cleaning the aquarium

In order to completely remove any remaining dirt from the container, you will need hot water and a sponge with a hard side. Every wall is thoroughly cleaned from the inside out multiple times. Add soda and salt to the water in case of a disease outbreak.

A soft, dry cloth is used to wipe the walls and bottom after washing in order to eliminate any moisture. If required, repairs are made or more seam glue is applied. For testing purposes, water is added to the aquarium and left for a few hours after the glue dries. You can start the aquarium up again if there are no leaks discovered.

Restart

Pour the cleaned dirt into a fresh jar with caution. The water should then be added, 15 cm above the soil’s surface. Pouring must be done carefully to prevent washing away the soil. Using a plate submerged under the water’s flow is advised. Fresh plants are inserted into the ground, and décor is arranged.

The installation of aquarium equipment is the final step. There is a heater, aeration, and filter. The equipment is also cleaned before everything is put in the aquarium (biofilters are not cleaned if there is no clogging because they have colonies of good bacteria in them).

The pets can now be moved. You can use this water to replenish the main aquarium if the fish in the spare jar seemed content.

You can turn on the apparatus once all the manipulations are finished. Throughout the first few days, you must keep an eye on the aquarium’s fish, plants, and water quality. It won’t be unnecessary to do daily little water changes, about 10% of the total volume.

Video: Starting an unsatisfactory aquarium

What are ground cover plants

Aquariums are frequently used to grow plants that require fertile soil in order to survive. The truth is that their roots are incredibly thin and tiny. Sand or quartz chips are totally inappropriate for an aquarium in this situation.

The formation of a lovely carpet on the artificial reservoir’s bottom requires the creation of the right "atmosphere," which is only possible with the aid of rich soil. It’s also important to remember that any plant that has a predominant red tint needs this kind of soil. If not, they will turn pale and lose their lovely shade.

Main characteristics of aquarium soil

We must assess the types of soil that are generally available and their sources before deciding which kind to use for an aquarium.

Soils can be broadly categorized into the following groups:

  • natural soils – pebbles, natural sand, gravel and crushed stone;
  • soils that appeared as a result of processing natural soils chemically or mechanically;
  • artificially created soils.

Particles in sandy soil are smaller than one millimeter. River sand is a favorite among aquarists, but be aware that water does not pass through it because of how tightly it lies on the bottom. Because this type of soil is prone to rotting, gases that are extremely detrimental to fish and plants—such as ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, and methane—are released during this process.

One disadvantage of river sand as a soil is that it settles too deeply.

This is considered pebbles if the size of the soil particles is greater than 5 millimeters. In contrast to sandy soil, the situation with pebble soil is different. Pebble soil allows for the penetration of all materials, including food, water, and waste. Fish, especially small ones, are unable to reach food that has dropped to the bottom because they lack the strength to squeeze it through the pebbles. As a result, food consumption has increased and aquarium pollution has gotten worse. And as a result, cleaning the aquarium needs to happen more frequently.

Based on practical experience, the ideal soil for an aquarium is one with rounded grains, less than 5 millimeters in diameter.

How the substrate for aquarium plants can affect the biological environment

It is important to note that most aquariums have a sizable amount of vegetation in them. In the event that you are the owner of such an artificial reservoir, selecting the appropriate soil is imperative. It will be able to supply all the essential nutritional elements to the roots, leaves, and other plant parts. A lot relies on the vegetation itself.

Some people don’t give much thought to the kind of plants that belong in an aquarium, so they don’t plant anything at all. However, if this is a serious pastime, you should make sure the reservoir is filled with vegetation. For instance, the least showy plants are moss, duckweed, elodea, and hornwort.

Some aquarists prepare the soil by hand. But it’s important to keep in mind that the artificial reservoir needs to maintain a specific biological balance. Since the aquarium is a closed ecosystem, even the smallest error could result in the plants becoming ill. The fish and other living things in the container will suffer if something similar were to happen to them.

Many inexperienced fish hobbyists use the analogy of a greenhouse to create nutrient-rich soil for aquarium plants. They combine soil, clay, manure, and peat, and then they pour the mixture into the artificial reservoir’s bottom. Nevertheless, these combinations typically have an adverse effect on every aquarium occupant.

For instance, it’s important to remember that the smallest amounts of peat and clay should be used. Such mixtures are used exclusively as a top dressing for very young plants by some professionals. Furthermore, everything is dependent on the particular water in the aquarium. The truth is that because peat softens the aquatic environment, it might not always be helpful. Fish health suffers as a result of this.

ADA Aquasoil “Amazonia”

These kinds of mixes are offered in packages ranging from two to nine liters. You can find them in standard stores. Throughout the world, this is one of the most widely used types of soil. In actuality, this product can be considered an extremely high-quality raw material. The dark hue of the soil contributes positively to the color of aquarium fish.

It is feasible to keep the water’s pH balance at 6.8% because of this nutrient-rich soil. This is an excellent raw material that gives plants and other aquarium occupants all the nutrients they need to grow to their full potential.

One benefit of this composition is that it works well for small plants and ground cover. It has every micro- and macroelement that is required. One of the rare soils that is good for shrimp is this one.

When discussing the drawbacks, we should point out that the soil’s texture will deteriorate with time and that it is rather expensive.

How to choose?

The average price of aquarium parts for St. Petersburg and Moscow will be shown.

The plants that will be planted in the aquarium, the animals that will call it home, and the size of the actual container all influence the choice of substrate and soil.

Which manufacturer makes the best soil for plants?

Granulated components are currently the most in demand, with a significant number of businesses producing them. Let’s list the top manufacturers by sales.

Aqua Soil

This company’s mixtures aid in lowering the acidity and rigidity of water. It is limited to use with freshwater aquariums, though. The mixture costs 2,500 rubles on average.

Experts advise against using these types of soils in fish housing that allow the soil to become disturbed.

Dennerle DeponitMix Professional

Peat, clay, quartz sand, biofiltering granules, and the soil’s own nutrient-rich minerals and iron comprise this complex. The complex is available for 1,200 rubles.

Dennerle DeponitMix Professional’s mixture promotes dense green growth and a stronger root system. The absence of phosphates and nitrates in the complex protects the aquarium from algae growth.

Plant Complete Substrate Concentrate

This soil is fully prepared for use. Peat, humic acids, minerals, and natural sand are some of its constituents.

A layer two centimeters thick is the soil layer that is placed in the aquarium. You can add a little more layer to the areas where you intend to plant plants. You can mix fine gravel into the soil to get the best possible effect. The soil costs between 1,200 and 1,500 rubles.

  • Dennerle Nutri Basis 6 in 1 for plants – costs about 1000 rubles for 2.4 kg;
  • Tetra Plant CompleteSubstrate – 1100 rubles for 3 kg;
  • ADA Power Sand Special-S — costs much more: 2000 rubles for two liters.

A vital step that creates the foundation for a healthy underwater habitat is to prepare the soil properly before adding it to the aquarium. A healthy substrate for plants and a cozy home for fish can be created by taking the time to clean, layer, and arrange the substrate correctly.

In addition to promoting plant growth, well-prepared soil aids in preserving steady water levels. You can make sure that your aquarium has a healthy, balanced ecosystem by following these easy steps.

Recall that the foundation you create in the soil will have a long-term effect on the general well-being and aesthetic appeal of your aquarium. Make the effort now, and you’ll reap the benefits of a thriving aquatic environment later on.

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Elena Grishina

Ecologist and aquarist with a special interest in creating balanced ecosystems in aquariums. Main focus — ecosystems that require minimal human intervention. I support a natural approach to aquarium care, where each element plays its role, helping to maintain harmony in a closed ecosystem. I promote sustainable aquarium keeping and respect for nature.

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