Avalon

Just ordered a bunch and can't wait to get it in the tank!

1. I understand I shouldn't fertilize for 4-6 weeks, except for some K. Does this include traces (TMG) or iron as well?

2. How much can I expect the AS to lower my KH? Currently it's 13 degrees.

Thanks!

jsenske

As for doing traces and iron, just keep an eye for deficiencies. It will depend somewhat on your plant selection. You are good to add K from the start.

Exact KH drop will vary. Are you using any rocks in the hardscape? What ever the drop amount, it tends to be within an acceptable range for most plants, shrimp and fish. Everyone that I talked to that had a significant drop that led to actual observable problems-- in every case so far-- was using a pH controller, and the CO2 was basically nver coming on. I suggest NOT using a pH controller with Aqua Soil substrate. Also, the majority of people experiencing extended elevated ammonia and other start-up issues did not use Power Sand Special (or regukar POwer Sand with Bacter 100 and Clear Super added). I am starting to see a trend here (I have never used Aqua Soil by itself and have never experienced ANY of the reported issues), and am thikning maybe ADA suggests AS and Power Sand be used together as a system for a good reason.