Substrate for a planted tank?

[litebrite8765]

I have a 37 gallon aquarium with fish and a few plants, but they aren't doing too well, and I know I need a new light fixture. (And planning on buying a t5 high output fixture soon)I was wondering what type of substrate I could use for a low tech planted tank with fish? Right now I have just regular aquarium gravel. I have considered Eco complete, but have heard it raises ph, and my ph is already high. (7.4-7.6) Any ideas? This is my first post. Thanks!

 

[mom2reds]

I use Eco complete and made no change in my ph at all.

 

[litebrite8765]

Okay thanks! Did you cap it with something or just used Eco complete?

 

[Malupoo]

I used eco as well. My ph has been the same as well.

 

[litebrite8765]

Okay I think I will go with Eco complete. Do you cap it with anything?

 

[Malupoo]

I didn't. Only took 2 bags for my 35g

 

[litebrite8765]

Okay, thanks

 

[flitabout]

I like dirt. I wanted to do dirt with an eco cap but I couldn't get any cheap in my area and shipping was a bit expensive.

 

[litebrite8765]

Would dirt be a good choice for a low tech tank?

 

[litebrite8765]

How many bags of ecocomplete would I need for a 37 tall? 30"L x 12.5"D. Bags are 20 lbs each