7 Best Substrate For Planted Tank

Any new fish owner quickly learns that a healthy fish tank depends on more than just the fish themselves. The type of substrate in the planted tank is also crucial for the health of the fish and the plants. 

The substrate is the material that you will use to fill the bottom of the tank to provide a foundation for your plants. There are many different types of substrates available, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

There are many different substrates available on the market, so it can be difficult to know which one is best for your tank. To help you make the best choice for your setup, we’ve compiled a list of the best substrates for planted fish tanks.

Take a quick glance at our top recommendations:

So whether you’re looking for an attractive option or one that’s easy to care for, be sure to check out our list before making your final decision.

Why Do You Need An Aquarium Substrate?

When you walk into a pet store and marvel at the rows of aquascaped tanks, one of the first things you’ll notice is the lush, underwater garden swaying with the water’s ebb and flow. Beneath that underwater wonderland lies the unsung hero—substrate. But why is having the best aquarium substrate crucial for your fishy paradise?

Soil of the Sea

Imagine your aquarium as a small-scale replica of the ocean floor. The substrate serves as the foundation, mimicking the natural habitat. It isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s the soil of your sea, providing essential nutrients and stability. If you’re interested in a garden of underwater plants, the best substrate for planted tank environments is indispensable.

Anchoring Your Aquatic Plants

You can’t just expect to drop a plant into the tank and hope it stays put. Plants need something to hold onto; they need an anchor. The best substrate for aquarium plants ensures that your vegetation stays rooted, allowing them to grow with health and vigor.

Nutrient Supply

If you’re aiming for a planted aquarium, the nutritional value of your substrate can’t be ignored. Planted aquarium substrate is usually fortified with essential nutrients like iron and magnesium. So when you’re in the market for the best planted tank substrate, look for options that promise a balanced nutrient supply.

Balancing the Ecosystem

The substrate plays a vital role in housing beneficial bacteria that contribute to the nitrogen cycle, effectively helping to balance the tank’s ecosystem. For a thriving aquatic space, a substrate for planted tank setups is more than a beautiful bed of sand or gravel; it’s a functional, living layer.

pH Levels and Filtration

Certain substrates can even assist in water filtration, absorbing harmful toxins and balancing pH levels. So, when you’re choosing the best substrate for aquarium plants, consider its potential impact on water quality as well.

Our choice for the best substrate for planted tank

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1. Winner: Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum

• Size: 4.4 pounds
• Color: Stratum
• Form: Granule

Pros

Made of mineral rich volcanic soil

Fluval’s Plant and Shrimp Stratum is made of mineral rich volcanic soil, which is perfect for fish and aquarium enthusiasts who want to create a healthy environment for their pets.

This type of soil is known for its ability to retain moisture and nutrients, making it an ideal substrate for plant growth. Additionally, the volcanic minerals provide essential nutrients that promote the growth of healthy plants.

Stimulates strong aquarium plant growth

Fluval’s Plant and Shrimp Stratum not only provides a healthy substrate for plant growth, but also stimulates strong growth.

The minerals in the volcanic soil help to encourage robust root development, leading to stronger and healthier plants.

This is an essential factor for fish and aquarium enthusiasts who want to create a thriving environment for their pets.

Promotes neutral to mildly acidic pH

Fluval’s Plant and Shrimp Stratum is perfect for those who want to create a neutral to mildly acidic pH environment for their fish and aquarium plants.

This is because the volcanic soil naturally has a slightly acidic pH, which helps to promote healthy plant growth.

Additionally, the minerals in the soil help to buffer against sudden changes in pH, making it easier to maintain a stable environment for your pets.

Do not cause discoloration in the tank water

Fluval’s Plant and Shrimp Stratum will not cause discoloration in the tank water, making it perfect for those who want to maintain a clean and healthy environment for their fish and aquarium plants.

This is because the volcanic soil naturally filters out impurities and toxins, keeping the water clean and clear.

Additionally, the minerals in the soil help to buffer against sudden changes in pH, making it easier to maintain a stable environment for your pets.

Cons

Not suitable for sponge filter.

If you’re using a sponge filter in your aquarium, this product is not for you. The coarse material can clog up your filter, leading to poorer water quality and potentially harming your fish.

Takes time to rinse.

This substrate takes a bit more time to rinse than some other options on the market. This is because of the smaller particle size, which can result in cloudiness if not rinsed properly. 

2. Runner Up: Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel

• Size: 15.4 pounds
• Color: Black
• Form: Clay Gravel

Pros

Specially fracted stable porous clay gravel for the natural planted aquarium

Specially crafted, stable porous clay gravel for the natural planted aquarium is perfect for fish enthusiasts looking to create a beautiful and healthy environment for their fish.

This gravel provides a great foundation for plant growth and helps to keep the water clean and clear. Plus, it’s safe for all types of fish and aquatic creatures.

Not chemically treated

Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel is not chemically treated, and your aquatic creatures will remain safe and healthy because it does not alter the pH of the water.

It is a light, non-compacting, porous structure

This type of soil is known for its ability to retain moisture and nutrients, making it an ideal substrate for plant growth.

Additionally, the porosity of the soil helps to promote healthy root development, leading to stronger and healthier plants.

Cons

May become dusty in transit

It is important to note that it can become dusty in transit and may require rinsing before use to remove any residual dust.

While this may not be a big deal for some, it is something to keep in mind as it will require some of your time to rinse it.

3. Best Value for Money: Landen Aqua Soil Substrate for Natural Planted Aquarium

• Size: 10 pounds
• Color: Black
• Form: Clay Gravel

Pros

Made from processed natural materials of the Earth

The Landen Aqua Soil Substrate for Natural Planted Aquarium is made from specially processed natural material from the earth.

This substrate is perfect for creating a natural environment for your fish and plants. It promotes plant growth and provides a healthy root system for your aquatic plants. It is also safe for all aquarium creatures. 

Rich in nitrogen nutrients and organic acids

These nutrients are essential for the growth of aquatic plants. The substrate also provides a healthy root system for your fish and plants. 

Can reproduce mildly acidic water tank condition

The Landen Aqua Soil Substrate can reproduce the mildly acidic water condition most aquatic plants prefer.

This substrate will make your plant look more attractive and will create a healthy environment for your fish at the same time. 

Needs at least 1 week waiting period to stabilize

If you’re planning on adding fish or shrimp to your aquarium, you’ll need to wait at least a week after setting up your filtering system.

This waiting period is necessary to allow the filter to become established and stable enough to support a fully-cycled tank. By following this, your fish and shrimp won’t be at risk of having illness or even death.

4. Best High-End:  Landen Namale Aquarium Sand

• Size: 11 pounds
• Color: Wheat
• Form: Sand

Pros

Natural landscaping that makes your aquarium look more attractive

If you’re looking to add some natural beauty to your aquarium, look no further than Landen Namale Aquarium Sand.

This sand is perfect for creating a make-shift landscape for your aquatic plants. Not only will it provide a beautiful backdrop for your fish, but it also contains all the nutrients necessary for healthy plant growth.

Strong absorption

This sand has strong adsorption performance, meaning it will help remove impurities from your water.

It also contains all the nutrients necessary for healthy plant growth, so your fish will be able to thrive in a healthy environment.

Natural and safe to use

This sand is made from pure natural materials and has a moderate pH value, making it suitable for both fresh and saltwater.

It contains no harmful substances that could potentially harm your fish or plants, so you can rest assured knowing that your aquarium is safe for all aquatic organisms.

Cons

Requires extensive rinsing prior to use

While Landen Namale Aquarium Sand is a great option for those looking to add beauty and health to their aquarium, it does require extensive rinsing prior to use.

However, if you take the time to properly rinse it before use, you’ll be rewarded with a healthy and beautiful aquarium for your fish.

5. Best Budget Pick:  Ultum Nature Systems Controsoil

• Size: 6 pounds
• Color: Black
• Form: Clay Gravel

Pros

Optimal Oxygen exchange

Ultum Nature Systems’ Controsoil provides optimal oxygen exchange and rich nutrients for fish and aquarium enthusiasts. Controsoil also helps to regulate pH levels and prevent algae growth.

Suitable for most freshwater fish

Ultum Nature Systems’ Controsoil is also suitable for all freshwater inhabitants that prefer slightly acidic aquarium water. This makes it an ideal substrate for fish that are sensitive to changes in pH levels. 

Releases low levels of ammonia

Ultum Nature Systems’ Controsoil has a low ammonia release, making it safe for use in aquariums with sensitive fish. 

Lowers water hardness

Ultum Nature Systems’ Controsoil lowers total water hardness for a better aquatic plant nutrient consumption environment. 

Cons

Not suitable for goldfish

While Ultum Nature Systems’ Controsoil is suitable for most freshwater fish, it is not recommended for goldfish.

This is because goldfish are more sensitive to changes in water parameters and may experience stress or health problems in an environment that is not stable.

6. Alternative 1: Aqueon Plant and Shrimp Aquarium Substrate

• Size: 5 pounds
• Color: Brown
• Form: Clay 

Pros

Can accommodate a variety of freshwater inhabitant

If you’re looking for an aquarium substrate that can accommodate a variety of freshwater plants, shrimp, snails and tropical fish, then Aqueon Plant and Shrimp Aquarium Substrate is a great option.

This substrate is made of natural clay and provides nutrients and anchoring options for plant roots. It also includes beneficial bacteria to help establish a balanced aquarium environment. 

Unique spherical shape

Aqueon Plant and Shrimp Aquarium Substrate’s unique spherical shape maintains its form over time and doesn’t break down into compressed soil.

This makes it an ideal substrate for plants and shrimp that require a loose, non-compacted environment. Its shape also allows newly budding and mature plants’ root systems to grow and flourish. 

Cons

Takes time to clean, rinse, and vacuum

it should be noted that this substrate does take some time to clean, rinse, and vacuum. This is because the clay particles can become difficult to remove over time.

7. Alternative 2: AquaNatural Diamond Black Premium Gravel and Substrate

• Size: 10 pounds
• Color: Black
• Form: Gravel

Pros

100% natural materials

AquaNatural Diamond Black Premium Gravel and Substrate is safe for your aquarium.

The 100% natural material is not harmful to your fish or plants. This product is also ideal for use in freshwater, saltwater, and reef tanks. 

Promotes growth of good bacteria

This substrate promotes good bacteria growth because of its large surface area. Its large surface area provides more space for beneficial bacteria to grow.

This product also contains essential minerals that are necessary for the growth of healthy bacteria. 

Helps remove toxins from water

AquaNatural Diamond Black Premium Gravel and Substrate helps to remove toxins from the water.

Its large surface area also provides more contact with the water, which helps to remove toxins more effectively. This product is also effective in removing organic waste and other pollutants from the water. 

Contrasts well with the plants

With its dark color, AquaNatural Diamond Black Premium Gravel and Substrate will give your aquarium a natural and inviting look.

The contrast of the dark gravel with the green of the plants like anubias and amazon swords will create a beautiful and serene environment for your fish. 

Cons

Requires extensive rinsing

AquaNatural Diamond Black Premium Gravel and Substrate requires extensive rinsing before use.

This gravel is very fine so it can easily cloud the water if not rinsed properly. Rinsing the gravel thoroughly will remove any impurities that could harm your fish or plants. 

Factors to consider in choosing the substrate for your planted tank

1. The type of fish and plants you are keeping 

The type of fish and plants you are keeping should be a major consideration in your decision-making process.

For example, if you are keeping plants that require a lot of nutrients, you will need to choose a substrate that contains nutrient-rich soil or pellets.

Bottom-dwelling fish will stir up the gravel and sand, so you’ll need a deeper layer to prevent them from being exposed.

By taking the time to research your options, you can ensure that your fish and plants thrive in their new home.

2. The size of your aquarium

In general, larger aquariums will require more substrate than a smaller one. Larger tanks require a deeper layer of substrate in order to provide adequate coverage.

For example, a 10-gallon tank might only need a layer of substrate that is 3 inches deep, while a 75-gallon tank would need a layer that is at least 6 inches deep.

3. The price of the substrate

While it may be tempting to purchase the cheapest option, this could be a mistake in the long run. In general, higher-quality substrates tend to last longer and provide better support for plant life.

As a result, they can actually save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.

When shopping for a new substrate, be sure to consider not only the initial price, but also the long-term costs of maintenance and replacement.

4. The maintenance requirements of the substrate

Some substrates require more frequent vacuuming and water changes than others. As a result, it’s important to choose a substrate that you’re willing and able to maintain properly. 

Substrate for planted tanks FAQs

Do you need a special substrate for aquarium plants?

Yes, you need a special substrate for aquarium plants. Here are five reasons why:

1. Aquarium plant substrates are very porous, which allows them to anchor plant roots securely while also providing plenty of aeration. This is important because roots need access to oxygen in order to stay healthy.
2. Substrates typically have a higher pH than regular fish tank gravel, which is beneficial for most live plants.
3. Theyusually contain trace elements and minerals that are essential for plant growth but not found in regular fish tank gravel.
4. Aquarium plant substrates can be customized to provide the specific combination of nutrients that your plants need.
5. Substrates are often much lighter than regular gravel, making them easier to work with and less likely to impact the overall balance of your aquarium.

Is sand or gravel better for a planted aquarium?

Sand and gravel are two of the most popular forms of substrate and they both have their pros and cons.

Sand is more natural-looking and can help to create a serene underwater landscape. It can also be easier to plant in because the roots can more easily penetrate the sand.

If you plan to keep fish that like to burrow, sand might be the better option. However, sand is also more likely to become compacted over time, which can lead to problems with water circulation. 

Gravel, on the other hand, is less likely to compact and can provide better drainage.

It also comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes, so you can easily find an option that compliments your aquarium décor. If you are after an easy-to-care-for aquarium, gravel might be the way to go.

The best substrate for your aquarium depends on your personal preferences and the needs of your plants.

Conclusion

Aquarium substrates are an important part of your tank set up. They provide many benefits for both you and your fish.

By understanding the different types of substrates available and how to choose the best one for your tank, you can create a healthy and beautiful environment for your aquatic friends.

We hope this article has helped you understand the different types of substrates available and how to choose the best one for your plants and aquarium.