How Long Does Eco Complete Last?

[HUKIT]

I picked up a Aqueon Evolve 8 to replace the Fluval Chi in my kitchen and I'm trying with the help of Mogurako to plant it. So I picked up a bag of Eco Complete and I was curious to how long the nutrients last in the substrate?

 

[TheFishBoss97]

I don't really know how long they last, but I had it in my 72G bowfront for almost 3 years, and then moved it to a 29G, 20G, and 2 10Gs where it has been for another year or so and my plants are doing well...I think it lasts around 5-6 years from what I have heard, but either way it's relatively cheap as it costs the same price as regular gravel at $17 per bag...

I am pretty sure the nutrients are still there in mine as my plants are still doing well as I have low light with no co2...at least my rooted plants seem to be growing faster than the same rooted plants in other tanks with same lighting...

 

[Rivercats]

Someone correct me if I'm wrong but I was always under the impression that any commerical plant substrate, Eco included, will continue to absorb nutrients from mulm and water since it has a high CEC. I've had it in a tank up to 5 years before and only removed it then because I wanted to do something different in the tank. I have Eco or Dirt capped with Eco in all my tanks.

 

[HUKIT]

That's the reason I asked since I've read everything from a few months to forever.

 

[MC1973]

Well it's "perfect" for a year or so, and a good idea afterwards to at least do some liquid fertilizers and root tabs (if you have heavy root feeders)