2Hr Aquarist APT Start – Substrate Enricher & Starter Bacteria (45g)

2Hr Aquarist APT Start is a universal substrate enricher with starter bacteria, designed to solve the most common problems during the first weeks of a new planted aquarium: plant melting, root shock, cloudy water and early algae outbreaks.

What is APT Start?

APT Start is a solid mineral fertiliser placed directly beneath the substrate before the aquarium is filled with water. It combines two functions: it enriches the substrate with essential nutrients and accelerates the nitrogen cycle with a concentrated blend of beneficial bacteria.

Key Facts

• Format: solid mineral fertiliser with beneficial bacteria
• NPK formula: 8.8-0-0.5
• Coverage: 1 sachet (45 g) per 60×30 cm of substrate area
• Application: placed beneath the substrate – not dosed into the water
• Compatibility: any type of aquasoil or inert substrate

Composition & Guaranteed Analysis

Ingredients: clay, calcium sulphate, ammonium sulphate, potassium sulphate, magnesium sulphate, magnesium nitrate. All macro- and micronutrients are fully water-soluble.

How Does APT Start Work?

Nutrients are released gradually from the clay matrix directly into the root zone, providing plants with stable, long-lasting nutrition instead of a sharp initial spike that can burn the roots. At the same time, the starter bacteria colonise the substrate and speed up the establishment of a stable nitrogen cycle, reducing the ammonia spikes typical of new aquariums.

Who Is APT Start For?

• New aquariums planted with aquasoil or inert substrate
• Beginners who want to avoid the typical problems of starting a new tank
• Experienced aquarists looking for a richer, more productive substrate – regardless of aquasoil brand

Frequently Asked Questions

Is APT Start a liquid or solid fertiliser?

APT Start is a solid mineral fertiliser. It is not dosed into the water – it is spread beneath the substrate before the aquarium is filled.

How much APT Start do I need?

One 45 g sachet covers an area of approximately 60×30 cm. For larger aquariums, use multiple sachets in proportion to the base area.

Can I use APT Start with any aquasoil?

Yes. APT Start is designed to improve the performance of any substrate brand, including inert (nutrient-free) substrates such as sand or gravel.

What should I use after APT Start?

Once the plants have rooted and the aquarium has completed its initial cycle (usually 1–4 weeks), most aquarists switch to a liquid fertiliser such as 2Hr Aquarist APT 3 for regular water column dosing.

Does APT Start help prevent algae?

Indirectly – yes. By reducing root shock and nutrient deficiency during the critical first weeks, plants establish faster and outcompete algae for available nutrients.