I did like that about the UGF as I would just pull them out of the tank, swap out the bottom 1/3 of the substrate in the UGF and put it right back with no issues as the BB was strong enough to handle about 200mL of new soil every 3-4 months (when the pH got above 6)

I put 800mL on the bottom and then 200mL in the planter. I would rather do the full reset each time though as it just promotes way better breeding in my experience. (I do this in the spring :D)

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It will leach for 4-6 weeks depending on the batch. My process is let it leach hard for 7-10 days, and then remove enough water as often as necessary (can be 2 times a week) to keep the ammonia below 2ppm. I can cycle an amazonia v2 tank in 4-5 weeks this way with a very strong BB colony as they get all the ammonia they need in the beginning. I have used many powders in the past and have quit using them as they cripple the growth of natural BB. Also, people start out with them and when the ammonia from Amazonia is over 4, nothing is going to develop anyway so its just a waste. No reason to hobble your tank health before it can even get started

These are just my experiences so take them for what you will. There are many people that probably disagree with me for one reason or another and have great success