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I plan on setting up a 55gal community tank with the possibility of adding live plants. If I use the crushed coral substrate and Texas holey stone from a previous cichlid setup, will it boost the ph above what I would need it to be? If so, what would you recommend for an inexpensive natural looking substrate? And how much would I need for a 55gal? Thanks.

yes
you are going to have high pH
with that substrate
...Valisineria would probably like it...
I'm not so sure about other plants with crushed coral...
our most popular substrate for planted tanks
is Eco Complete planted (you need $60-$90 worth for a 55 gallon...
the other popular gravel is Natural gravel (I'd get #1 or #2)
you need about $30 worth

Thanks for the response. I understand the plant selection would be limited with crushed coral but how would community fish do with a higher PH?

How many pounds of Natural gravel are we talking about for $30?

Thanks again.

community fish do with a higher PH?
DEPENDS...SWORDTAILS AND MOLLYS PREFER IT, CARDINAL TETRAS WON'T DIE BUT WON'T LOVE IT.

How many pounds of Natural gravel are we talking about for $30?
100 POUNDS ($15 per 50 POUND SACK...NEEDS TO BE WASHED)