[BlueSplendid]

So recently I attempted a planted tank, and completely botched it up. I purchased some wonderful mineralized topsoil from bamaplants.com, but for whatever reason we didn't completely cap it. So after realizing that mistake, we drained the water and completely capped it, but there's still "mud dust" everywhere and it's very cloudy/murky. I've been filling the tank up just to vacuum it out. Not only that, but we purchased what I would consider the worst gravel in the world. Even after a very strong rinsing, the dust was and still is everywhere. (Don't worry, my betta is safe in a different tank, still heated and filtered.)

If possible I want to try and save the topsoil and purchase new substrate to cap it. Even if that means sitting there for an hour picking gravel out. What substrates have worked best for you guys? What about top soils for planted tanks? At this point I'd prefer something that can be bought in-store because shipping gets so expensive. I have easy access to both a PetCo and Petsmart and live in the Grand Rapids area of Michigan.

 

[kman]

If you're doing a dirted tank, pretty much anything will work to cap it. Try sand, in whatever color you prefer. (light colors get dirty faster, of course, just like that white carpet in your living room)

Otherwise, for gravel, Eco Complete and Activ-Flora are both excellent options, but I don't know if the big chain stores still carry them. AF is my personal favorite.

 

[givemethatfish]

Go to Menard's and get either Black Beauty (for a black color) or pool filter sand (for a light beige/white color). $8 for 50 pounds of either one. You can usually find them side by side in the construction sand/cement area.