Peat as a substrate

[tommyk]

Hi it's Saturday night, baby is in bed and no sitter. I'm sitting here looking at an empty 15 gallon tank and my mind is wandering. I'm thinking about setting up a planted tank possible walstead method. I have a location picked ( in the unity room) and got the go ahead from the mrs!!! The only substrate I have is peat moss and gravel.

I'm wondering if anybody has used peat moss as a substrate and if you have any pointers on what to look out for, or what depth to use.

I'm not overly concerned about ph or hardness as my tap water is extremely hard and has a ph of over 8.

Thanx in advance for any advice

Tommy

 

[tommyk]

Also I meant to say I'm living in an area with naturally peaty soil so I'm thinking I might be able to get some natural plants from streams or lakes in the area

 

[tommyk]

Anybody ???

 

[Rivercats]

I use Organic Potting soil that is high in peat but have never just used peat with a gravel cap. As the organics break down over time it will act to soften water.

 

[tommyk]

Cheers river cats. I got an aquatic potting mix today so I might try that