I couldn't even post an update yesterday as I was so exhausted (still am lol). But once I drained/cleaned the tank and moved the fish here are some of the things I did. I'm going into a bit more detail because I like to see the details in journals, even the bits nobody cares about.
Laid a layer of Alfagrog on the base, hoping it will stop the substrate being too deep again. Also I'm guessing it'll contribute somewhat to biological stability with all those pores. I opted not to use the haggis method in the end as these rocks are quite bulky and got in the way of the hardscape.
Put a decent layer of Tropica Substrate down, a bit thicker than what is suggested but there's some heavy rooters going in here so I'm sure they'll appreciate it. Interestingly, the two bags I had looked completely different. One was very fine brown powder and the other was coarse and grey.
I broke up some Easy Life root sticks to provide some extra initial nutrition.
I put the hardscape into position. This actually took a long time even though I had already planned out the layout. I can't begin to imagine what would have happened if I hadn't. Admittedly I should have bought more dragon stone as I ran out and my stupid brain didn't account for the fact that the tank is bigger than the replica so there would be more spacing. I had to use some old random rock pieces as stabilisers, but they'll be covered up in no time.
Planted that baby up and then flooded it! I don't know if I got a dodgy bottle but in my experience the Gorilla Super Glue Gel was very temperamental. I'd use it and it would stick instantly and then another time it would barely hold, but it all worked in the end. I used regular low viscosity super glue with cigarette filters, filter floss and black sponge for the tougher bits.
It looks lightly planted in the pictures but I think it's just because the plants are small. It's actually quite dense and there isn't much planting room left. I left a space in the back next to the sword for Cryptocoryne Balansae which is due to arrive.
No floating plants or wood so I'm happy
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The water was actually clearer than I expected considering how dusty the gravel was and me sprinkling aquasoil liberally on super glue.