Blueram Posted November 26, 2003 Report Share Posted November 26, 2003 Hi guys, Anybody got any good ideas on a cheap DIY substrate based fertilser? I have used latrite in the past, but don't want to spend that much money again!!! I was thinking of using organic peat and potting mix from the local garden store. Any comments welcome Blueram Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Matthew Posted November 26, 2003 Report Share Posted November 26, 2003 The other option is to dig up some red clay on the side of the road. how's the riccia going Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rob Posted November 26, 2003 Report Share Posted November 26, 2003 I've come across people that use dried sheep pellets - just inserted periodically in the root zone of the plants. Not sure how much a sack of them is but should provide a multi-year supply. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Warren Posted December 11, 2003 Report Share Posted December 11, 2003 Potting mix doesn't work so well. It tends to break down and rot, releasing smelly gas. Aquatic Plant Potting mix is ok however. It's mostly clay with some goodies added. It costs $10.00 for a 15L bag (from Palmers). I used 2 in my 8 foot tank when I set it back up last weekend. I've used it before with very good results. You could probably mix in a bit of very slow release fertiliser as well. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
carla Posted December 11, 2003 Report Share Posted December 11, 2003 Don't use normal potting mix as it is pine bark based and quite unsuitable for under water plants. There is a clay-based potting mix for aquatic plants which most garden centres stock. It has some slow release fertiliser added. In addition you can buy fertiliser spikes (like the jobe sticks for your tomato plants) especially formulated for waterlilies and the like which can be pushed into the gravel beneath the plants every 2 months or so. They are supposedly releasing very few nutrients into the water so algae-growth should be limited. Good luck with your new tank! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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