Soil substrate question

[Soulstar]

Hi guys,

So recently I've been contemplating on what kind of soil substrate to use and I usually see two different types.

Type 1
Just floor our the bottom of the tank using one substrate (small balls which I assume contain nutrients for the plants)

Type 2 Use a dense mud-like substrate (power sand) first and on top layer out with Amazonia or Africana...etc.

What is a better setup?

Can I use sand on top the power sand and still grow plants?

 

[Soulstar]

Any ideas?

 

[Wepwawet]

I'm not sure what you're asking. I'm not sure what you mean by power sand?

Could you sort of lead us thru what the end game is ( style, fish, etc)

 

[Soulstar]

I'm not sure what you're asking. I'm not sure what you mean by power sand?

Could you sort of lead us thru what the end game is ( style, fish, etc)

My apologies, maybe I wadnt clear enough.

Please check the link below

You will find that for most ADA setups they usually use some thick substrate first and then top the layer with amazonia or somr other kind of soil substrate.

On the other hand ive also seen people just use ADA soil without the power sand.

Just wanted to know what the ppwer sand does and if it will allow me to grow a wider range of plants or not. Also if it will help with carpeting my aquarium.