Brightwell Aquatics FlorinBase Laterite Powder

Brightwell Aquatics FlorinBase Laterite Powder

Overview

Supercharge your root zone with bioavailable iron where plants need it most. FlorinBase Laterite Powder is a natural, high-CEC clay additive that enriches inert gravels and sands, improving nutrient holding capacity and supplying iron to support lush growth, deeper greens, and vibrant reds—without relying on water-column dosing alone.

Key Features

• Iron-rich laterite clay – Supplies a steady, root-available iron source for swords, crypts, stem plants, lotus, and more.

• Boosts CEC – Enhances a substrate’s cation-exchange capacity so roots can capture and store nutrients from ferts and fish waste.

• Fine powder for even mixing – Blends smoothly with gravels/sands or layers easily beneath cap substrates.

• Shrimp & fish safe – Inert and free of harsh additives when used as directed; does not intentionally raise KH/GH.

• Perfect for new builds & rescapes – Upgrade plain substrates or refresh tired beds during maintenance.

How to Use

New setups (best practice):

1. Place hardscape.

2. Pre-mix or layer: Blend FlorinBase Laterite Powder into your base layer, or spread a thin band where heavy rooters will sit.

3. Cap with your chosen substrate (e.g., FlorinBase F/VF or inert sand/gravel).

4. Plant, then fill the tank slowly to minimize disturbance.

Established aquariums:

• During a rescape, lift plants, create small pockets, and work the powder into the root zone, then re-cap.

• Alternatively, pack small amounts into root tabs/capsules and insert near plant crowns.

• Avoid sprinkling directly on the bare surface where it can be stirred into the water column.

Always follow label dosing guidance. Fill gently and run mechanical filtration to capture any initial fines.

Best Practices

• Pair with a consistent fert routine: root tabs for heavy feeders + liquid macros/micros for stems/carpets.

• Maintain steady CO₂ (if used), moderate-to-high PAR appropriate for species, and stable parameters (pH 6.2–7.4, 72–80°F / 22–27°C).

• Rinse/mechanically clean filter media regularly to keep root zones oxygenated.

• Avoid deep gravel-vac in dense plantings; lightly hover to remove detritus above the cap.

Compatibility

• Works under fine or coarse substrates and with all common filters (sponge, HOB, canister, sump).

• Excellent for aquascapes with Cryptocoryne, Echinodorus, Nymphaea, Ludwigia, Alternanthera, etc.

• Safe for shrimp/snails once dust settles and the tank is cycled.

Product Specifications

• Type: Natural laterite (iron-bearing) clay powder substrate additive

• Function: Increases root-zone iron availability and substrate CEC; enhances nutrient retention

• Use Cases: New builds, substrate upgrades, rescapes, refreshing exhausted beds

• Water Impact: Inert base; may produce mild initial tint/haze if disturbed—clears with filtration

• Storage: Keep sealed, dry, and out of direct moisture.

• Safety: Aquarium use only. Keep away from children and pets.