Regime
Walstad
Philosophy
Diana Walstad's method is based on natural balance: fertile soil under gravel, moderate light, emergent or floating plants, and minimal human intervention.
Plants feed from substrate and the biological cycle of fish.
Recommended nutrient targets
| Parameter | mg/L |
|---|---|
| N (NO₃) | 3 |
| P (PO₄) | 0.3 |
| K | 5 |
| Fe | 0.05 |
| Mg | 2 |
| Ca | 15 |
| B | 0.005 |
| Mn | 0.02 |
| Zn | 0.005 |
| Cu | 0.001 |
| Mo | 0.001 |
Dosing frequency
Minimal or none (substrate and bioload provide nutrients)
Water change
10-15% every 2-4 weeks
CO₂
Not necessary
Light
Moderate (natural light or moderate LED, 6-8h)
Pros
- Minimal maintenance
- Ecologically sustainable
- Affordable
- Self-sustaining ecosystem
Cons
- Complex initial setup (soil)
- Less controlled aesthetics
- Difficult with demanding plants
- Risk of initial cloudiness
Common Errors
- •(EN) Content pending...
Advanced Techniques
- •(EN) Content pending...
Ideal for
Those seeking a natural, low-maintenance aquarium with hardy plants and a balanced ecosystem.