changing gravel

zeebo

Member
Jun 11, 2010
1,986
1
36
ct ,usa
ok , so you guys helped me get my tank to look more natural ,got rid of the castle and added lots more wood and larger stones , pebbles, etc, (still trying to figure how I can post a photo) BUT , now I need to change the gravel to more natural looking . My lfs has a good variety so I will choose something next few weeks, but how do I change it. I know not do it all at one time, and sure you have been asked this a million times, but want to get it right without any mini-cycle. Should I stagger it in 1/4s a week or ???? and what do you suggest to keep the new and old apart while changing it ?
Any help appreciated, sorry for the redundant question. Thanks .
Georgie
 

Doodles

Retired Staff
Apr 8, 2009
8,786
3
36
Is the gravel small enough to syphon?

When I changed mine, I syphoned a quarter of it per week until all gone then added new gravel on the last syphon day. Whatever substrate it is, try not to stir it up too much as no matter how clean it may be, theres still lots of debris.