Dirt!!!!!

[awilson133]

today I will be dirting my 29gal with organic soil. does anyone have any advice or tips, things I need to do before I put it in? ive seen some people strain it to get the big stuff out is this necessary?

 

[Ziggs180]

Did you soak the dirt in a bucket? Its not required, but it might prevent an Algae Bloom when your tank gets started.

 

[awilson133]

no I have not..

 

[awilson133]

is eco complete a option??

 

[Nomadu571]

Look up 'mineralising' soil before putting into the tank. The process helps keep algae blooms and major changes in levels away. This is not entirely necessary but if you have an up and running tank your changing it might be worth a look.

Try to get a good cap on the dirt, and don't play with it too much once your finished, or you will just end up frustrated with a load of mixed soil and gravel/sand.

 

[TheCrazyFishLady]

I would wash it through before putting it in. I've had an issue with bugs and stuff in organic soil before for my terrariums. I don't know if those could live in water or not, but washing never hurts.

What brand are you getting?

 

[awilson133]

miracle gro organic. okay ill look that up

 

[awilson133]

ive been cycling my tank (fishless) so its been set up. im just adding dirt since I couldnt when I started.

 

[Mumma.of.two]

If you don't mineralize it first try adding some hornwort and fast growing stem plants. They will help suck up the excess nutrients.

 

[awilson133]

I have a bunch of swords would those work. cause I think someone told me the suck up a lot of nutriens

 

[mfdrookie516]

No, they grow too slowly. Your best bet is to mineralize it, or just buy MTS and be done with it.

 

[awilson133]

what is MTS?