Tom often mentions Leonardite as a good bottom layer for a substrate, but I don't like it at all. I think the purpose is to get more organic carbon in that area of the substrate, something Leonardite is noted for. But, the constant leaching of yellow water is too much of a disadvantage for me. I never have had that problem with ordinary river silt. I was never able to get adequate lighting on the 10 gallon tank I had the Leonardite in, so the plants didn't have much chance to grow well, and they didn't. It is entirely possible that if done correctly Leonardite would result in better plant growth. I have no idea what the optimum or minimum amount to use would be.

I have fairly good growth in my 20 gallon. The yellow water is too much though, entirely disturbs the look of the tank. I am going to stick with it a bit longer and see if I can get it to clear up but things look doubtful at this point.

How much do you have in your 20g? I was thinking like maybe just a very small amount, just kinds dusted on the botom of the aquarium and then your 2-4 inches of flourite might be just enough to get the tank started, but not have long term water colouring effects? I dont know....lol

I have between .5" and .75" of Leonardite, definitely more than a dusting. It is capped by about 2.5" of Onyx Sand. I am still working with the activate carbon in the HOB filter to see if that slowly clears it up. Trying to keep that filter clean by rinsing weekly, and changing the media bi-weekly!

Hi Tom, I read your article with great interest especially since I don't have to use CO2. I am setting up a 60G tank with ADA amazonian soil and power sand. It will also have 2 96W bulbs each one has its on power cord. My question what plants would be best for me. I will be using Excel!

Excel is not a non CO2 method, however, there is some crossover.

Excel will allow water changes, strict non CO2 does not encourage water changes, which is a plus benefit for using the method.

If the water is yellow, then activated carbon will take care of that pretty fast.
SeaChem matrix carbon is among the best.

Note, you can bake carbon to recharge it in the over, make sure it's as hot as your over can go and run it for 1-2 hours or so. This will not fry all of the organics, but will roast many and recharge a fair % of the carbon for reuse.

Many do not like the sink or the idea of their home oven being used this way.
They might just say go buy some more carbon

So Excel will help if you need to do water changes.
Yellow water= carbon for the pure non CO2 method.

Bob, the 60 gal has way too much light.
Use T5's, say 2x 39 W. More than enough and place them about 12" or so apart, do not use them at 3" apart distance, modify and spread out the hood if needed.

Excel would be wise there also using the ADA AS for 2-3 months. Do not try it with the 96 watt lights unless you plan on using CO2.


Regards,
Tom Barr


Regards,
Tom Barr