Features and benefits:
The carefully selected peat creates excellent conditions for the root system, and supplies plants with all the necessary minerals and trace elements. Clay improves the texture, and acts as the base, achieving excellent consistency. Similarly to peat - clay acts as a natural layer for storing excess nutrients, and maintaining biological balance in the tank. Micronutrient contents have been supplemented under laboratory supervision to make sure that aquatic plants have an abundance of trace elements, while the chemical balance of the tank stays in check. AF Natural Substrate is rich in micronutrients, so for the first three months Aquaforest do not recommend the use of fertilizers containing micronutrients, unless the plants show visible signs of deficiency.
HOW TO USE:
1. Install heater cable if used.
2. Spread the substrate on the bottom of the tank and compact it to achieve approx. 2-2.5 cm thick layer.
3. Cover with about 3cm of gravel or sand.
4. Gently fill aquarium with about 15 cm of water. In order to avoid disturbing the substrate, we suggest placing a plate or dish on the bottom, and directing the stream of water on to it.
5. Place the plants in the substrate.
6. Fill the aquarium with water.
Note:
10 L of AF Natural Substrate should be sufficient for a 200 L aquarium with a 100 cm x 40 cm bottom. Substrate can lower and stabilize the pH of the water, therefore it is recommended to use a dedicated test or probe.
Shipping
How is my order shipped and what does it cost?
Orders are shipped either by Courier [currently FedEX Ground] or Postal Service --- the choice is yours!
For delivery by Courier, you pay the actual charges based on a 1 kG package [2.2 lbs] shipped via ground service, plus a nominal $1.00 service charge to cover the cost of insurance and packing materials. We pay any additional charges.
For Postal Service (your best value), shipping on orders under $100.00 is $13.95 to most locations in Canada, exceptions noted below. For orders between $100.00 and $150.00 the rate is $9.95, for orders between $150.00 and $200.00 the rate is just $4.95 and for orders over $200.00 shipping is FREE. The more you order the more you save! The delivery standard for this service is between 1 to 7 business days between all major centers.
NOTE: Additional Shipping Charges apply to orders being shipped to the NWT, YK, NU and some rural or remote locations in Canada as well as on over sized or heavy items indicated by the the - Additional Shipping symbol.
When will my order be shipped?
On weekdays, in-stock merchandise is shipped the same day if received by 2:00 pm EST. Orders received after that, or on weekends or holidays, are shipped the next business day.
Do you ship to the US or to other International destinations?
Currently we are only shipping within Canada.
Returns
What if I want to return an item?
Should you find it necessary to return an item, please call us first. All returns should be properly packaged to avoid damage and should include all original boxes and paperwork to receive a refund, replacement or credit. Shipping fees are not refundable, unless, of course, you are returning defective merchandise or merchandise we sent in error.
What do I do if a product breaks or doesn't preform as promised?
Keep all warranties and owner's manuals you receive with your merchandise. In the event an item becomes defective or just doesn't live up to your expectations, please refer to the warranty information you received for proper handling procedures.