This tool calculates how much substrate you need for a planted aquarium. Enter the length and width and desired height of the substrate. Select a substrate type or enter the liters per bag of your desired substrate. Typically, the substrate height ranges between 2-4 inches (5 to 10 cm). If a sloped substrate is desired, enter the average of the greatest and lowest height of the substrate.

The volumes from the substrate types in this calculator are gathered from product descriptions, manufacturer websites, and/or personal measurements of the product. They can be found below.

• Ultum Nature Controsoil Substrate Extra Fine 10L- Aquarium soil from Japan. Keeps pH of alkaline water below 7. Advertised not to leech excessive ammonia.
• Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum- Slightly reduces pH. May not buffer water for long term. Not as nutritionally rich as some higher tier soils but can supplemented easily with root tabs. More affordable than high tier soils.
• ADA Aqua Soil Amazonia Normal 9L- One of the most popular soils in the planted aquarium hobby. Includes key plant nutrients, uniform size, durable, lowers pH and water hardness. Temporary downside is leeching excess ammonia when initially starting out. Do several big water changes initially and plant heavy.
• Seachem Flourite Black- Very fine granules, can be messy to work with. Easy to plant in. Porous clay substrate is good at nutrient absorption.
• Mr. Aqua Aquarium Soil Substrate 8L- Nutritionally complete and economical alternative to aquasoil. 8L bag has more value than buying 1L bags.
• UP AQUA Sand for Aquatic Plants- Substrate appears shiny from baking during manufacturing. Not ideal substrate if you prefer a more natural look. Advertised to be durable and drop pH to 6.5.