PLANTED TANK SUBSTRATE AND SOIL GUIDE - BASE LAYER FERTILIZING VS. SAND, GRAVEL

[@AntsCanada]

Awesome video! My current aquascape is missing the cosmetic sand and pebbles. I was waiting for this episode to upload. Now I know what I need. Thank you!

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers, you'll have to know that having these will add to your maintenance time though. Keeping the sand foreground clean takes time - more than a regular planted foreground.

[@zaidimran7188]

instablaster

[@LostSoulNexus]

Wasn't expecting to find a comment from the one that inspired me to start ant/frog/fish keeping again, it's a great indicator for this channel in my opinion

[@danielkopejtko]

I like your style. You give everything very clearly, for everyone ...

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers Daniel, so glad you support the way I talk. You are great.

[@johngualbertmina3991]

My first time to immerse into planted aquarium. Substrate is my first concern. Excited to start after watching this vid as I felt I got clarity on my questions. Thank you! More power Green Aqua!

[@litonkarmakar205]

00@@GreenAquaShop

[@minami2611]

This is my favorite channel about aquascaping ♥️

[@GreenAquaShop]

Wow, cool! Mission accomplished, thanks so much for the kind comment.

[@luiswicho5301]

Oh yes!.

[@GreenAquaShop]

👍🏻

[@be_emm4853]

Same

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks guys, you are great!

[@tigersunruss]

I don't think I've ever seen any of the pro people you bring in the shop to do aquascaping use three different layers how ever this makes way more sense. This is 100% a great video. This will make my 75 gal way more successful once I get it all set up. Thanks mate!

[@GreenAquaShop]

You're welcome, actually almost all pro aquascapers use this method...

[@tigersunruss]

@@GreenAquaShop I'd assume so. I either didn't see them use this or wasn't paying attention to what they were actually doing because it wasn't explained like you have now. I highly appreciate your videos, without them I would not be enjoying my tanks as much as I do now. Everyone from green aqua is awesome. Wish I could buy from you guys :D

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers, thanks for the support, glad you appreciate what we do, hopefully we'll expand in the distant future and you'll be able to get the stuff we use from us.

[@izzyse7055]

Literally my favorite KZbin channel, Perfect channel on KZbin that shows you perfect ways to make beautiful nature in your home. I’m so surprised this channel isn’t passed the 1million subscribers mark , you guys deserve it

[@GreenAquaShop]

You guys support us so much, we have already went up very very fast, faster than anybody in this hobby. Thanks to you.

[@jayant19901]

I love your channel because you give only genuine and very practical advice which all level of auqascapers can follow.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks! Glad you find our advice useful. Cheers!

[@jayant19901]

Green Aqua thanks man. Cheers!

[@alexcp929]

@3:40 I believe you are mistaken, anaerobic bacteria do not convert nitrate into ammonia, they turn nitrate into atmospheric nitrogen. That's why sand tanks work just fine. However sand only tanks don't provide nutrients, which is I think the main difference

[@jayson9363]

Would you recommend topping the sand with aquasoil? I have aquasoil that sits for 2 months so it will not leech ammonia. This guy above is saying it is bad if sand is below and soil is on top@3:40

[@alexcp929]

@@jayson9363 depends on your goal, if you want anaerobic bacteria then sand should go below aqua soil, but I think generally people put sand on top of soil because they want the nutrients to slowly release, and if you have plants, the plants can use that nitrate/nitrite/ammonia from the soil and biodegrading organic matter

[@jayson9363]

@@alexcp929 i have several plants and i have soil that release little to no ammonia called controsoil

[@jimmcintosh184]

I have been away from the hobby for years. Back in and loving it, and Im very impressed at the attention to the science of it all. Bravo

[@martinmikota2740]

"I have seen ppl taking dirt from outside and putting it in oven..." I was like "Oh hello MD fishtanks xDD"

[@GreenAquaShop]

Yeah 😅

[@luiswicho5301]

Oh yeah!!!. HAHAHA

[@AquaLady153]

Works lol

[@liquidrockaquatics3900]

That’s how you make starter soil for planters

[@urbansk8r231]

Dustin's fish tanks he uses dirt in his tanks

[@adgrimes1981]

I'm in the process of putting together a tank for my kids. I'm not really a hobbyist, very new to aquariums in general, but I do do my research to understand before diving in... The one thing thats been holding me up is the substrate layer(s) along with the plants to use, and I stumbled across this video this morning... What a gold mine of information! I now know what I need to be ordering for the final few bits before I can start actually setting this up! Thanks!! #excited

[@GreenAquaShop]

Glad you like the video. 👍😁

[@BodgieFromStraya]

FIRST - i love how all of your recent videos are literally perfect for me at this exact moment as i am planning and prepping a tank to enter the IALPC either next year or 2022

[@GreenAquaShop]

3rd. Enjoy. :)

[@towguy8012]

It took me well over an hr to watch this video. Very oriented and knowledgeable. Took 3 pages worth of notes 😅.

[@Natquascape]

Once again my friend, you have given us a wealth of knowledge and entertainment. Love the video, thanks again

[@OT-tn7ci]

So an year ago I made a comment saying this guy made it sound that we need $1000 to get started in the hobby, I take that back, this is actually very informative and he told begginers the bare minimum, and if you can get the soil weighed in instead of Packets, it's actually not that expensive, without realizing I just finished building a scape with, Ada power soil, Amazonia V2 and colarado sand with dragon stone bits separating background and foreground with very thing, mixed soil on the front with mostly colarado sand and a very thick layer of Amazonia in the back for planting, this is a narrow, 6(depth) inch by 14(L) inch by 12(h) inch tank, and all of the stuff cost me like $80 and to be honest it's not bad and the tank turned out great, we can't create the ideal conditions for fish by cheaping out too much, this is just minimum and actually great. He gave great points, like well if u use sand in the bottom it's just gonna stink cuz of ammonia its very true, anywayy good luck yall

[@hobbyscape4433]

Awesome tutorial on soils and substrate. It’s what I exactly need at the moment. Thanks for sharing.

[@GreenAquaShop]

You're welcome, glad you can use this info! Cheers.

[@jamesjolley5606]

First time back to tanks in a long time. This was really informative

[@GreenAquaShop]

Glad to hear it was helpful in some ways 👍

[@guilhermeberck1726]

Sou Brasileiro🇧🇷, e desde o primeiro vídeo que eu vi no canal eu me simpatizei com você, parabéns, em poucos videos deste canal, eu tive informações que eu não conseguir achar em nem um outro canal aqui do Brasil. Conteúdos de altíssima qualidades e de grantes aprendizagens, Ganhou mais um instrito. Thank You.

[@GreenAquaShop]

You are welcome, glad you appreciate our effort, thanks for watching us! Cheers.

[@Miraklum]

Just love this. Started this hobby 3 weeks ago and glad I found this channel.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Welcome to the channel! Cheers.

[@BaDD0]

You are making great tutorials! I want to start a planted aquarium and while I'm "researching" I learned a lot from your videos. And this is the video I was looking for the most (+ the one with the plants). Keep it up! Thanks a lot! Greetings from Romania, neighbour!

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks for your feedback and thanks for watching our channel. We only can promise more content is on the way for the upcoming months :) including several tutorials too

[@Pancratzio]

Watching this guys relax me so much. You guys make a great job there at Green Aqua. Best regards from Romania !!

[@paragbrahme]

Awesome information to novice people like us. Can you do one tutorial on refreshing soil which is more than say year or so. You guys are doing wonderful job. Keep scaping keep educating us Cheers

[@GreenAquaShop]

I personally don't like the idea of soil refreshment, I would want to rescape the whole tank from scratch - to have new inspiration, a new living nature in my home - I know I'm a bit different...

[@paragbrahme]

@@GreenAquaShop Yes agreed... By starting from scratch you can develop your aquascaping skills also. Off course I am talking about ourselves and not pro people like you ;)

[@GreenAquaShop]

Well, my goal is for everybody to get to my level. Many have already done so, and many have done better tanks!

[@pedromartinezmejias9302]

Excelente trabajo,esto lo tenias que haber publicado hace 3 años y no hubiera mal gastado el dinero muchas gracias por tu trabajo

[@GreenAquaShop]

You're welcome, sorry for being late ;) Anyway, good luck with your future builds, I'm sure they'll be really cool. Cheers.

[@ModeSarka]

I always enjoyed your videos, but this one is out of another dimension! Superb job, one of the most helpful videos out there! I'm also glad to see that the number of your subscribers is growing exponentially - well deserved! Keep up the good work and best of luck!

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks so much, it grows because of your support, you guys are great, and your feedback is what keeps us going!

[@roxbittman]

I have really started to anticipate your GreenAqua videos; they are so professional, beautiful to watch, and informative. I especially liked this video. I know it's not everyone's favorite topic, but I think it is one of the most important. This one and the one on filters ROCK! Well, I drool over the 'scaping ones as well, for sure. Thanks!

[@GreenAquaShop]

Oh, that is so kind of you to write, glad you hooked up onto the channel, and hope you'll enjoy it for a long time, a lot of effort goes into the production with many good people helping indeed. Cheers Roxanne.

[@tsubasawolfy]

It would be very nice if this video shows up 3 years ago, haha. My first planted tank used the ADA Amazonia Light without fertilized substrate. The tank worked very well in the first three months(with pressurized CO2 system of course). Then, the plant stopped growing even with the liquid fertilizer (all in one fret). At that newbie time, I thought the Amazonia Light should contain lots of nutrients that supported plant growth at least for one year. After some searching, I realized the Amazonia Light may loss its nutrients, so I inserted some root tab near plants. Then, the plants started thriving vigorously for one year. With this lesson, I rebuilt the tank with Tropica growth substrate at the bottom, and covered with clay base soil which has CEC( Cation Exchange Capacity) about 50 meq/100g. Now the tank has lasted for a year with good root development. The soil and substrate DO play important roles on planted tank, and this video provides good suggestions for beginner to build the tank.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Yepp, you really have the experience with soils then! :) You now know what to do, good luck with the future setups!

[@tsubasawolfy]

@@GreenAquaShop Thanks for your kindly reply. I learn a lots from this high quality channel, especially the trimming section. Maintaining a planted tank for a long run is more difficult than setting up. The trimming section provides the experience that you already have, but I don't.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Well, the more you do the better you'll be at trimming, I promise. :)

[@laurasutton4057]

Thank you. This helped me so much. Getting ready to plant my first big tank.

[@stephaniebloodworth6962]

Such a beautifully designed and photographed video! One suggestion would be to have the names of the items printed on the screen. At times showing the fish and tanks was lovely!

[@GreenAquaShop]

We try to avoid distraction as much as possible, you'll see all details in the description and can check out the products one-by-one on our website. Cheers.

[@JurijsJutjajevs]

Looking to start a sand collection soon, only need a myriad of the little glass bowls

[@GreenAquaShop]

Do you know that we kinda sorted these for two day in row with Attila for the video, it was a very rewarding flow-experience.

[@microcox]

@@GreenAquaShop was wondering if you'd joke about that in the video :-) Must have been a hell of a job, and would have made the video worth it on it's own. We really need to have this reference collection somewhere! (I know this is my second comment about it, but what a job )

[@unusualaquariumecosystems5805]

Well I made some out of glass bottles.

[@pepercat17]

Wish this existed when I first got in the hobby

[@pieekassim4783]

Well explained. And yes, I don’t like to use very fine and too bright sand. It looks bad when all fish poop visible. Thanks for another great content guys! Loved it. 💚

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks for the kind feedback, glad you agree with my personal taste, haha.

[@pieekassim4783]

Green Aqua haha we got each other 😂

[@GreenAquaShop]

:) Yeah!

[@domipanda8872]

"Corys would not like to be in the sand, they would be hurt by the sharp edges" I think you meant the sharp edges off the pepples, sand is perfect for the corys. Just to avoid any confusion here.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Yes, that's what I meant - also, there's sand that has sharp edges, not rounded...

[@Pssst.ByTheWay]

its often a quick DIY to get play ground sand, this can have sharp edges, depending on it its collected or manufactured. having a close look at the sand you can tell pretty easily. green aqua is very right about sharp edged sand.

[@erickborling1302]

This is off the rails. Besides the insane bonsai concept and elite studio look where every tank is crystal clear, the distinction between soil and substrate needs more emphasis. It begs many questions including what kinds of rocks and geology.

[@andreasmusirng9385]

Hello guys, While I appreciate your high quality videos and the many updates on this channel. This video especially feels like a forced marketing for 'Soil' and conceals sadly many facts. While on the surface you described the different properties all these aquarium substrates, you mostly only call out the positive things about soil and only said the negative things about sand & gravel.... I have to add for most beginners especially, sand will not always be a problem even if it is put as a 'Bottom Substrate' under other substrates like the speaker told in this video, because it depends on how big the grain size is (still, just use it as a standalone substrate or cover layer as most would recommend). So Sand with higher grain size or even gravel also lets your aquarium have an active and biological ground layer. Even more Sand also has advantages for many fish species like Corys or Discus. There is a reason nearly nobody will keep these fishes in fish tanks with soil as substrate. At last there are good and bad anaerobic microorganism, so not all of them are bad like the speaker here tries to tell you, go research why some people even want to have anaerobic microorganism in their tanks.... Soil also has big disadvantages the speaker in this video did not tell you guys. Two of the biggest would be that it decays into fine powder over time (which will condense the ground, which the speaker called a big disadvantage of sand) and that the fertilizer within the soil will be drained in 1-2 years of normal use. So think again before you want to start a 1000 liter Discus fish tank, because it will most likely be a bad, bad idea in reality and you most likely don't want to completely replace your substrate in your tank every 2 years?!. Another disadvantage of soil would be the problem you get with it at higher temperatures and its algae problems, which you need for some species like Discus and Altum fish. Well, I know the guys on this channel want to market their stuff but please try to tell these beginners all facts. There is a reason why there are still much more fish tanks with sand or gravel as substrate than all these hyped products like soil, volcano minerals, clay etc. Wish you all good success with your tanks, peace.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Peace Andreas, thanks for expressing your opinion.

[@techhdan]

This is honestly the best video I've seen about this topic! Thank you so much. I've looked at so many videos and I feel so much more informed after this particular video. Thank you!

[@GreenAquaShop]

You are welcome, glad you found it useful.

[@simonbagel]

13:55 first time I've ever heard somone say sand is not good for corydoras.

[@AquaLady153]

Like play sand or blasting sand. Oolitic sand is good. Very tiny oval shaped granules.

[@Flyingdutchy33]

Regular garden (organic) soil is perfectly usable. In fact, before Amano came to the scene, _ALL_ planted tanks had a soil layer with a sand capping layer. We rescaped the university tank using the soil from the greenhouse (agricultural education so... :)) It's a 2 meter long tank and we raised it by about 30 cms in certain places, maybe more, using just the potting soil with a thin capping layer of sand. Ofcourse now we can't go to the university to take care of it because circumstances, but it's still doing fine without 3 months of maintenance. The Monte Carlo has carpeted the entire thing. That said, I use amano soil in my personal tanks. But whenever somebody says garden soil isn't advisable I can't help but roll my eyes. Again: This is how Dutch scapes were built for decades.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Yes, but those were different times, different tech, etc. And please understand that I did not say this does not work, I really have to bring more people to the hobby, and promote aquascaping for the many. And we loose - I know we do, I'm in the frontline - many many beginners due to bad filtration, diy struggling, fear of too much info in chemistry, electricity, biology, etc. We really promote the popular aquascaping with an emphasis on beautiful tanks.

[@Flyingdutchy33]

@@GreenAquaShop The tech wasn't all that different to be honest. The only real difference is the addition of CO2 and the conversion from TL to LED. Other than that, all other factors have remained mostly the same. I never said you said it didnt work, you just advised against it. I find that advising against this perfectly fine and proven cheap DIY method of soil is contrary to your goal of bringing more people into the hobby. I think that a 2 meter long garden soil tank with a 3 month maintenance neglect and no issues speaks volumes as to the ease of this method for beginners. "We really promote the popular aquascaping with an emphasis on beautiful tanks." That's why this channel is exploding in popularity and why I myself watch too :) But now it almost seems like you say you can't have a nice tank with normal garden soil. There is a whole army of veteran planted tank scapers out there that would strenously disagree with that, myself included.

[@despex5019]

Which roottabs can you recommend? And how many do i need in a certain area like an eleocharis lawn or dense stem plants area.

[@GreenAquaShop]

It's usually written in the box, we like ADA, Tropica, Seachem.

[@martha-leemain5883]

Your information was excellent, got me to where I need to get my new tank started right, Thanks alot.

[@peacefulaqua6221]

I remember rinsing my flourite black substrate for hours, lost alot of good minerals haha

[@GreenAquaShop]

Haha, now you have it. :) Just fill the new tank with water slowly! That is the key to not having cloudy water from day one.

[@tcr7]

@@GreenAquaShop Do you have a suggestion for how to add water slowly? Is there a cheap tool or a DIY tool that can be made? (I'm trying to build my first planted tank right now.)

[@rifkyprakoso9288]

@@tcr7 You can use your hand to restrict the water flow or use bubble wraps/other materials and pour the water directly on it

[@gregedgerton3390]

I am someone who enjoys the plants perhaps more so than fish; depending of course. A beautiful school of cardinal tetras is a rather different observation from a two foot long central American cichlid; and also something less of a hardship on a planted tank ! You truly stand-out from your contemporaries. You do very good work. Thank you.

[@GreenAquaShop]

You are welcome. Cheers!

[@awilson1578]

Thank you so much you just erase all the mistakes I've been making for over a year. I couldn't understand what I was doing wrong when I was doing everything others said would work. Awesome informative video.

[@GreenAquaShop]

That is very good to hear, good luck with your future tanks, we all learn continuously. Cheers.

[@aizathafizzulfaiz5955]

Thanks for the details information! a newbie like me really appreciate it, as I want to start this hobby with a 40x25x25cm tank and want to avoid so many mistake while setting up for plant and hardscape. keep it up!

[@GreenAquaShop]

You are welcome! Cheers.

[@terrywilliams5810]

Hi Balazs, wow , what a great finish to the tutorial series . Your explanations of , what a lot of people may struggle with was excellent .your unique and dare I say laid back style will help countless aquascapers. You are a natural in front of the camera. Thank you very much .

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers, I'm not a natural at all actually, Terry, it might sound strange but I don't like to be in front of a camera. :)

[@terrywilliams5810]

@@GreenAquaShop Well ,in my humble opinion, you do it very well.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks! I really like when Viktor or Tommy take over. :) I can direct than, I love that more than anything. :)

[@francinecarmichael6600]

Love this guy....good he can give such good advice and also have a little laugh as well.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks Francine!

[@FauziDikaFamily]

This is my favorite channel about aquascape

[@GreenAquaShop]

That sounds really cool, mission accomplished for us! Cheers.

[@FauziDikaFamily]

Green Aqua 🍻

[@GreenAquaShop]

👍🏻

[@jakubskakala9068]

One of your best educational videos🌱 I learned much of things.

[@cuyahogaaquatics893]

Excellent explanation for people new to aquascaping

[@GreenAquaShop]

Glad you found this useful, thanks for watching!

[@RukshanAriyarathne]

Exactly what I was looking for all over the internet. This answered many of my doubts. Thank you 👍

[@GreenAquaShop]

You are welcome, glad you found this userful!

[@nalinwijeweera2921]

These are the best aquascaping videos i had ever seen..very interesting.. and his presentation also very clear and perfect...my suggestion is for the beginners watch all tutorials ... can learn many very important things about aquascaping...perfect video... good luck....

[@alejandrosalazar1231]

Amazing video, actually have to watch it a couple times to really absorb all the knowledge you shared with us. THANK YOU

[@GreenAquaShop]

Welcome to our channel Alejandro 😄

[@RichGuano]

I am just now assembling my next planted tank. I am posting this comment before I watch your video. My plans are potting soil covered with pool filter sand. If you change my mind, I will pour the sand out onto the floor and make like Brian Wilson.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Haha. You're determined, sorry I failed. Haha.

[@olena8172]

Thank you very much for your videos! also thank you for the opportunity to read subtitles in your own language! your videos are inspiring! I wish you development and prosperity!

[@GreenAquaShop]

Glad you like our automatic subtitling, we do everything for your comfort. Cheers.

[@benlau747]

Everything's i needed to know before switching for active soil, thanks !

[@GreenAquaShop]

Glad to read this. :) Thanks for watching us.

[@be_emm4853]

Yeah, my every week lesson about aquascaping....ang english lesson as well😁. Guys, I wrote this so many times, but GOOD JOB!

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks again my same-name-friend. :) Good that you find these videos useful!

[@ttw369369]

"ok, class dismiss" :D what a good sharing, Thank you Balazs! I like this tutorial video, it's brings me back the memories of you started to do few tutorial episodes in older days.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks for that, you surely know a lot more about aquascaping than many here though. :)

[@ttw369369]

@@GreenAquaShop Thank you too.

[@GreenAquaShop]

For nothing. Cheers.

[@warrenmartin1607]

Great insight for the future scape. First real try in a much bigger tank

[@conorkiser5727]

I can’t wait till you guys deliver to the states, we really need more companies selling high quality aquascaping equipment

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers Conor, thanks so much for the kind comment, well, we really need some time to grow, but hopefully it will happen in the distant future.

[@kamrulhasanshuvo9062]

Thanks for the life-saving tutorial for the beginners (including me)!

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers, glad you found this useful!

[@richardathey3116]

Love your channel mate. Exceptional quality, always informative and it’s the right kind of information. No filtering or interpretation needed, it’s always exactly what you need to know. Keep up the great work.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Will do Richard, thanks for the encouragement, you are great! Cheers.

[@gedheaton1415]

Typical Green Aqua Vid, dont think I can give you guys /gals any more praise than than. First class info and presentation as usual.Thank you Balazs.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers Ed, so glad you support us!

[@dacetoh4508]

Really very professional, thank you for the amazing video

[@AdirraBG]

Very useful video! I have a serious brown algae problem that I suspect is caused by silicates released by bad quality quartz gravel. I plan to replace my substrate so I will do it in the right way this time thanks to this great video. Thank you and greetings from Bulgaria!

[@GreenAquaShop]

You're welcome, cheers!

[@atelierrecicla7414]

My First planted tank is bringing a lot of work and knowledge for me. The fight against the algae have been exhaustive. Fighting and learning every single day. All my study have been directing me to undertand that sand is the guilty. Next step: take away the sand and increase the plant nutrition. The quality of the plants is fundamental to the health and beauty of the tank. Plants without roots in a young tank will suffer a lot. Green Acqua have taught me a Lot.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Glad it seems you're getting on top of things! Good luck with the progress. Cheers!

[@Pzest_Titan]

What a video, A1 presentation and delivery 👏 tysm ❤

[@aquaauthentica7653]

Exactly the kind of overview that I love! Very helpful!

[@GreenAquaShop]

Glad to read this. :) Cheers.

[@vibol03]

exactly what im looking for! there are so many types of substrates and soils and you explained it so well. i've been doing planted tanks for 5 years and i failed pretty much every time due to lack of research and money (no proper co2 system). This time i found you guys and im gonna spend what's necessary. I dont care if my wife yells at me!

[@christie4257]

I am beginner in aquascaping. I found your video and I love it! I am from the Netherlands. If I visit Hungary, I will make sure to visit your shop!!! 🥰👍

[@GreenAquaShop]

Welcome to he channel Christie, looking forward to have you over personally! Cheers.

[@mertercan1696]

Very common and important questions. Thanks you for answer them.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers, glad you found this useful!

[@veneshpillay3635]

Exellent video, this is a must for anyone getting into planted tanks/aqua scaping.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks so much, glad you found this useful, thanks for watching and commenting. Cheers.

[@jennam8057]

im so exited cuz this video cover's everything i'v been endlessly researching. i go back and forth A-LOT on what i want to add to my tank's as substrate so i really needed this help...thank you so much for the well-done explanation, I'm thinking about trying out fluval stratum with pebble type rock above for added weight holding down new plants tell they get rooted nicely. i will definitely be subscribing! cant wait to see more :)

[@jmag1962]

Great, great, great, great VIDEO of Aquascaping. THE BEST OF THE BEST!

[@GreenAquaShop]

That is so cool to read, thanks for the comment!

[@basfishermanallyear]

Forever wishing that the US will have these great products in our local fish stores. Especially Amazonia and Tropica.

[@ericplunder2744]

That was so wonderfully informative. It clarified so many things about this topic for me. Thanks 😊

[@GreenAquaShop]

Glad to hear it was helpful, thanks for the kind feedback. Cheers.

[@deosameer]

Extremely informative video......this help to solve my lot of unanswered doubts ...

[@GreenAquaShop]

Good to hear that, glad you found this useful, thanks for watching.

[@sokchanpheaktra3267]

Appreciate your work that give me much inspiration with aquascaping

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thank you for your kind words. 🙏😇

[@BigGoldenApple]

Excellent video tutorial. I am thinking of using this combination of substrate + Soil + Sand on my new tank. This is will be first Aquascaping tank.. :-) And I could really do with some help. JBL Proscape Volcano Mineral as base layer (2-3cm) to raise the back, JBL Aquabasis plus (1cm), JBL Manado Black (5-6cm), and finally JBL Sansibar River Sand (for foreground and paths). Also thanks for all the information and advise on the channel, very clear and detailed tutorials, and fantastic videos with the masters.... !! Excellent.

[@GreenAquaShop]

I would avoid JBL substrates and soils. :)

[@robertthompsonii6657]

Loved the substrate tutorial! Again, placing the soil in those beautiful Petri dishes was great! Made it seem like they had been brought back from alien planets.

[@GreenAquaShop]

And it took almost 2 days to finish - don't ask. Haha. Glad you appreciate the idea.

[@chuckandravenadventure5143]

I love your videos as they are extremely informative. I was always afraid to attemtp a full aquascape but you have given me the confidence for my first. My only problem is finding quality products here in the US. The European market seems to be the place for quality plants, tanks and hardscape material. I wish I could order from you as I feel you are the premier aquascaping source. If you have any suggestions I would greatly appreciate them and I look forward to your next video.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Aquarium Design Group.

[@djpseudoname2023]

Absolutely in agreeance with Hobby Scape. Awesome tutorial on soils and substrate. 👍🏽

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers, thanks so much for supporting us with the feedback, much appreciated.

[@shanebep3135]

My first planted tank had gravel as the substrate and root tabs. It was so difficult getting plant growth out of stem plants and hard to keep them from coming loose. My second tank I used good quality active substrates and it made a world of difference, within a week I had growth that took two months in the first tank. Definitely would recommend spending the money on the proper stuff

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks so much for backing up what we stand for! Cheers Shane.

[@microcox]

Nice and helpful video, thanks ! If I may, one very helpful thing would be to have the complete scene with all the soils and sands and pebbles side by side somewhere. I mean, this scene by itself is worth a video or at least a picture gallery. We choose our soils blindly all the time because we don't see them like that. Cheers!

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers Thomas, not a bad idea, might do that in the future.

[@marymccannon5610]

Never say "the last" (topic in the GA tutorial series). Our hobby is in constant development as it is a continuous learning curve. So, be prepared, Balázs, you'll have to do more in the future. As you know me, when it will come to push you and the GA team, you can count on me. ;-) I really like and appreciate the display of all varieties in Petri dishes, which prompted an idea to spring into my mind. I think a wall-mounted display of all the substrate and soils would be very nice at the back, where all the hardscape materials and dojos are. I think not just the novice scapers but even those at competition level would highly appreciate that. And being back, well verbally, at the hardscape-heaven of your HQ, may I suggest another vlog: please introduce the stones. Which are the ones that can alter the GH and/or the kH (I. e. Seiryu), which are neutral (like lava), etc. See, I told you that this will not be and should not be the last one. :-) P. S. I was and am too shy to ask for Danis' nano marvel, but there is one thing I dare to ask for: a mug. But not before I can finally set foot in your showroom, again. I am longing for that and to meet you all.

[@GreenAquaShop]

I did't mean last - as there's not gonna be more tutorials. We just completed another new tutorial, and planning to redo the old ones in a better way. But it was the last of the major topics. Thanks for the push Mary. :) We worked like almost 2 days with Atti on those dishes. :) Yes hardscape tutorial, been suggested before, good idea. Looking forward to have you over once again soon. Cheers.

[@nanoreaper5002]

Very informative I have learned a lot from this series, the most important thing i have learned is don't rush to get started, do your research, and Balazs doesn't like white sand..

[@GreenAquaShop]

Haha, the most important is the last statement.

[@deosameer]

Good thing about quarantine days is your videos every week without fail. Love you guys : )

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks so much for all the support!

[@Printerthing]

Great idea with the substrate presentation. It looks fantastic!

[@GreenAquaShop]

Glad you appreciate our effort - we worked like almost two days to get them like that... Haha.

[@seanmasterson9282]

Could you guys do an updated version on this topic? I love what you guys do, but I'm still a bit hazy on the substrate levels idea. Anything more to add to this topic would be awesome.

[@marcgemcelolarve]

Hi Green Aqua, greetings from Philippines! Thanks for sharing very informative and inspiring tutorial videos.. 1. Filtration 2. CO2 3. Lighting 4. Layout 5. Plants 6. Algae 7. Fertelizer and last Substrate/Soil/Sand, sad part, it is last tutorial, i hope there is more upcoming tutorial like different kind of Driftwoods, DIY works and tips and life hacks. hehe also make Q&A part 2. its very educational, educative, enlightening, illuminating, informational, informatory, instructional, instructive. Love this Channel ^_^

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks for the ideas, we will surely do more tutorials in the future, we will even redo the old tutorials eventually. Cheers.

[@marcgemcelolarve]

@@GreenAquaShop yehey. God bless to the Channel. Ps. Thanks God for this beutiful world of Aquascaping.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers! :) you're welcome. :)

[@ShawnHineidi]

very nice substrate guide Balazs. Honestly, ever since i started using the ADA Power Sand, I had far less issues with algae and thats because my plants started growing fast and healthy and out-competed the algae. People might shy away from expensive products but I believe its would be a very good investment in you are looking for a high end, healthy planted aquarium.

[@GreenAquaShop]

And not only that, it helps a lot with decomposing the ammonia. It is a very well designed substrate! Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

[@nishantacharya7848]

What a tutorial?. Green Aqua should start an educational aquascaping app.

[@GreenAquaShop]

That's the youtube app, haha.

[@min1797]

Wow just buying substrates for my new aquarium wow amazing timing

[@GreenAquaShop]

That is good timing indeed, glad you found this useful.

[@min1797]

Green Aqua oh cool! Thanks for replying! I have a question for you! Can i skip the base layer and just use soil?

[@GreenAquaShop]

Sure, you could, but you'd have slower growth with the plants that have roots in the substrate in the long run and you'll have to use root tabs much sooner - because you'll see plant growth problems. We did a couple of tanks that had no base layer substrate but they usually had mostly epiphyte plants and one carpeting plant (or something like Utricularia) and we new we'll not keep the tank for long - more than half a year or so.

[@min1797]

Green Aqua thank you so much!!

[@GreenAquaShop]

You're welcome. Cheers.

[@guybowe9352]

awesome simple tutorial. Love you guys

[@GreenAquaShop]

We love you too for your support!

[@guybowe9352]

Green Aqua getting some power sand per your recommendation!👌

[@GreenAquaShop]

Good choice!

[@bobbymalta73]

Thanks for sharing dear friend great Explanation.

[@GreenAquaShop]

😃👍

[@izgrizan1]

tnx so much about this tutorial it helps me a lot i have one aquarium right now but i like to make big change in it and i watch all tutorial from you guys .You help me a lot about this hobi. Your the best i like u so much

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks for the kind feedback, much appreciated. Cheers.

[@mustafahammodiy]

Hello good job. You know, I keep looking at your videos 50% for good information plus beautiful aquarium and 50% because you are a nice person. It does not mean that I will do all your advice ... Haha Keep it as you are

[@GreenAquaShop]

Haha, what??? Sure, I'm just communicating my ways, that is not the only good way to walk.

[@mustafahammodiy]

@@GreenAquaShop Yes But it proved very successful

[@GreenAquaShop]

It is the mainstream of the planted tank hobby, many do this, not only us, this approach is something that has been working for the wide range of people throughout the world, but it's not the 'right way'. :)

[@marypaigeflynn4512]

Thank you for sharing your expertise!!. You have been an incredible teacher throughout your videos.Thank you always!!!!stay well and safe🙏❤️🤗

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks for the kind comment Mary - as always!

[@BentleyPascoe]

Another great video Green Aqua Team! I've had a tank going with Amazonia mixed with Eco-complete for years now (between the two tank set ups its been in, over 5 years) and my crypts still go hog wild in it. Great substrate combo.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Thanks for that feedback, good to know that it worked. You know your stuff!

[@thedoc7717]

What ratio did you use for the mix of Amazonia and Eco-complete? I am thinking of doing the same thing. Also do you have any pics of your scape? Thanks in advance!

[@BentleyPascoe]

@@thedoc7717 one to one by bag, large bag of Amazonia to eco complete. Layered or mixed is fine.

[@jeevandewee]

Man, I learn allot from you channel! Thx for yet another great tutorial!

[@GreenAquaShop]

You're welcome, glad you liked this!

[@fishysnowman9082]

You guys are really doing an awesome job making some of the best Planted Tanks. videos out there thank you. 👊🏻

[@GreenAquaShop]

Cheers, you were always supportive of us, much appreciated!

[@nikhilgurjal5285]

Good information about sand Soil and substrate Thanks for Sharing this information. Green Aqua Nikhil

[@ingridkhan5847]

Brilliantly informative video. Love ADA's La Planta sand.

[@GreenAquaShop]

Love to hear you enjoy the content. La plata is our fav too. Looks so natural 👍