I have read on this forum that HC can be kept without CO2 by dosing with excel. Has anyone here had success keeping HC like this? I would like to have this plant in my next tank but I do not want a high tech setup. I don't really care how long it will take to fill in but I need some advice so that I do it right from the start. This will be my first time keeping this plant.

Thanks,

Yes it works fine, you need to use less light than many seem to think they need.
2 w/gal works pretty well.

Try using ADA AS and the Excel and ought to do okay.

Regards,
Tom Barr

Thanks Tom I am looking forword to trying this method.

I was thinking of covering the top of the tank by using strech wrap to help keep the tank humid. Will that work or is there a better way?

sounds like you're going to use the dry startup method (emersed). if that's the case, you don't need excel. but you will need it after you fill the tank.

Yes, sorry I should have made that more clear. So will strech wrap work?

when growing HC emersed, is it really necessary to place a lid or cover on top of the tank?
also, i wanted to ask your knowhow guys.
what are the factors that affect the HC growing tall and skinny rather than creeping on the substrate?

I put a lid on mine but make sure to keep an eye on the temp inside the tank depending on what type of lighting you are using. I made the mistake of putting a metal halide a few feet above it and the temps were well over 100 in a few hours. Also make sure you dont have any prolonged periods of no light, all my hc melted when the light accidentally was unplugged for a few days.

wow.. thats some valuable info..
i tried some emersed in plastic containers and placed it under the sun, and they do dry out so quickly that i can't keep up moisting them
well i could if that is my full time job which is not the case as of the moment hehehe=)