I think I can answer my own question after some research.

From what I have recently researched: flourite has a high CEC (the ability
to absorb nutrients and retain it for plant roots etc.) and is INERT (will
not alter water chemistry). Flourite is nutrient rich but will apparently
not leak into the water column...so you don't have to worry about
accelerated algae growth or nutrients cluttering up the water. It contains a
lot of iron and other trace elements.

The nice thing about flourite supposedly is that you can use it throughout
as the gravel bed substrate without having to add any supplements. Laterite
is only a supplement that you add to substrate.

Anways, that was fun

"Dave M. Picklyk" wrote in message
. ..
I'm thinking of setting up another tank in the future. This time I have to
plan for the substrate so I can get some kick ass plant growth

What's better? Lacerite or Flourite? I heard that Lacerite is cheaper and
you only have to use it on the bottom 1/3 of your normal aquarium gravel
while Flourite is more expensive and must be used throughout the entire
substrate??

thanx!
Dave.