Scaping your hardscape!

[Caima]

I normally use both, most of the time makes a better impression.

[stlfishlover]

Mostly driftwood, although in the 125 I have some smaller smooth stones partially hidden in small coves of plants for my Bolivians to spawn on. I have also used petrified wood in the hardscape but wasn't real pleased with how it looked. Usually I go with Malaysian, however with the 20 gallon re-do I believe I will try Manzanita unless I can find something similar that has the same 'branchy' look when scaped.

[fishman9809]

on my next scape, i will either do iwagumi or nature style. wat you guys think? this is gunna be a shrimp breeding tank in a 12 inch cube (possibly a 30c)

[DiogoHCMatias]

Both are important. The rocks give a solid scape and branches give some freedom to the scape that rocks can't do.
Also use white sand in almost every scape i done. I just love the efect.

[CmLaracy]

I feel it completely depends on the goals one hopes to achieve in an aquascape. When scaping, one should have a clear view of what they want to create, and depending on the desired outcome, one should know immediately which to use.

A more natural, lush scape is complimented by a combination of rock and stone, whereas a serene Iwagumi requires only stone. This is not to say that an Iwagumi hardscape comes cheaper and easier, as acquiring the right stone, and the right amount, can be a daunting task. The stone requires texture, and each piece needs to compliment the next in a manner that helps it all come together. Not only are these beautiful pieces expensive, but often very hard to find.

Wood, whether it be Manzanita, Malaysian, or ADA Old Black wood, also demands precison in choice and placement. I feel that with wood, it's critical just as it is with rock to find the right pieces.

Both stone and wood require much thorough thought for a design to be truely outstanding. One can attain the best hardscape materials in the world, but if they are not placed, positioned, and used properly, the scape will not come together. Patience is required when striving to create a pleasing hardscape, as everything does not come together all at one. Small revisions have to be made over time, and a fresh set of eyes always helps.

The hardscape is the foundation on which the entire aquascape lies, don't shrug it off and say you can make up for it with the plants. It's the backbone to all great scapes.

[StanChung]

It use to be either but lately as Amano pointed out the trend is for both.

I find I need stones to anchor the wood. Not all the time though. Lately I've been using more rock as the availability is better than before.