I have read the 'dry method' of starting a planted tank at New(?) methoid to make a nice rug of HC before you add water

I'm very interested in experimenting and giving this method a try. How air-tight does the tank need to be to maintain sufficient moisture? I don't have a glass lid. Should I wrap the tank up with plastic wrappers and make 100% air-tight ?

There needs to be some air circulation, but the main thing is that the plants don't dry out completely. The substrate needs to be very moist. I'm growing HC emersed in a little 3 gallon and all I do is mist the plants really well every day and add a little water when the substrate gets dry. It's not covered and things seem to be coming along well, but its probably best to at least have a galss canopy on.

What size tank are you planning to grow it in?
What lighting?
What substrate?

Hope that helps a little. I'm sure someone else with a little more experience will chime in.

Actually am trying my luck with Hairgrass in a 2' tank. In fact I just bought Amazonia II for the substrate.


I really hope so as I have read so many threads about lighting for Hairgrass. Some just recommend 36W, some even recommended to go for 100W.

yes I am really confused.

Anyone can advise me? TIA.

Well, this tank is a 70 gallon with 108 Watts.

It's had little work on it and still has the hiar grass lawn a couple of years later now.



If it grows well under water, it'll grow well emersed.

Regards,
Tom Barr

check out this outstanding method

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a195/ragn4rok/HC.jpg

Really straight forward........

Easy if you live the tropics, add weeds , add dirt, wait.

Same deal here, just in your tank, then you add water.

Regards,
tom barr