Guide

STEP ONE

3 steps
Step 1
Make sure you STEP ONE enough STEP ONE
Make sure you STEP ONE enough STEP ONE

For the pond bottom, use approximately 80 liters STEP ONE per square meter.
This creates a layer 10 cm thick, ideal for natural filtration, healthy root growth, and beneficial bacteria.

For a plant filter, use approximately 160 liters STEP ONE per square meter.
This creates a layer 20 cm thick, which is ideal for filtration and root development.
In that case, you no longer need to cover the standard pond bottom with substrate.

Calculation example:
1 package STEP ONE 40 liters (2 bags of 20 liters each).

  • 2 packages = 80 liters → 1 m² of pond bottom.

  • 4 packages = 160 liters → 1 m² of plant filter.

Check out our STEP ONE Pond substrate

Step 2
Add it now and let it do its thing
Add it now and let it do its thing

Spread the STEP ONE evenly over the bottom of the pond or in the plant filter.
You can then place the plant baskets.

Do you already have plant baskets in your pond? No problem.
You canalso add STEP ONE later. It’s okay if some substrate falls on the plants.

Is there a lot of sludge in your pond?
Remove some of the sludge, then STEP ONE a 10 cm layer of STEP ONE , followed by the POND CARE package for a fresh start.

Step 3
Add BACTA CLEAR INSTA CLEAN 2 to 3 times a year
Add BACTA CLEAR INSTA CLEAN 2 to 3 times a year
To keep your pond clear, add 2 to 3 times a year it POND CARE Package too.

Want toget rid of algae for goodand have a pond that maintains its own balance?
Set up your pond properly according to ourClear Water Planso thatit has everything it needs to stay balanced year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pond Advice

That's normal. The substrate has already been washed at the factory, but some dust or clay powder may still come loose.
The water will clear up on its own. This is 100% natural and harmless to plants, fish, and bacteria.

STEP ONE intentionally very porous, allowing plant roots and bacteria to attach easily.
As a result, a small portion may float briefly at first.
After about 14 days, it will sink on its own once it has absorbed water.

Does that bother you?
Temporarily place the floating part in a bucket or container filled with water. After a few days, you can add it back to the pond.

If it still hasn't sunk after 14 days, please visit
and send us a photo along with an estimate of how many liters are still floating, so we can help you find a solution.

No, that’s not necessary. The substrate has been pre-washed and is ready to use right away.
Any powder that may be released is natural and will disappear on its own.

Yes, that’s no problem at all.
STEP ONE non-abrasive and can be applied directly to all types of pond liner, even in deep areas.
You can even walk carefully on it without damaging the liner.
Tip: Only do this when absolutely necessary—not every week.

Yes, it’s safe to do so.
You can add the substrate to an existing pond with fish and plants by gently spreading it over the water’s surface.
It will sink to the bottom on its own and form a natural filter layer.

The substrate is completely natural, non-toxic, and helps improve water quality and promote plant root growth.

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