Changing substrate

[DonLisk]

Sorry for bringing back an old thread but I was wondering too, if I don't use a drainage layer do I still need to worry about changing the substrate or still less often than that of a nonplanted tank? I currently have ivy and pothos plants as well as red wigglers and isopods in the tank using a 75% coco-fiber to 25% organic soil. So will the worms and isopods help delay the change?

Yes, the isopods and red wigglers will help in reducing how often you will need to change out the substrate. The main think that will occur is your substrate will become saturated and rot at the bottom of the tank if water is building up from misting.