By rights this should be in a plants, or planted tank section, but as we do not have one yet (oversight), I wil do a quick post here.
I had meant to do this sunday evening already, but was busy with another DIY project, which I will post later this month.
Now at the last meeting, a few mentions were made about starting up some decent planted aquariums and the setting up and costs, I recall Barries mentioning some one, and it may even be the same person I am going to mention.
Go and do a search on Diane Walstad, she uses potting soil, her method is well proven and documented, lasts for ages, and most importantly to us, is quite literally dirt cheap.
Hope this may help some of you out.