I've been reading this forum topic on this technique and got inspired. I only wish I had known about this emersed technique before I started my planted tank.
The question I'd like to propose is: Are there are any good techniques out there for transplanting emersed HC into a tank that's already filled up and planted?
I'm attempting to try it with a little custom setup. I don't have any spare tanks to use, so I tried something that utilized my current lights and tank water. I would be very interested in hearing from people who have successfully tried this technique for a tank that is already filled and what process you used.
Here's my setup. I don't know if it will work or not but I'm optimistic. The plan is once they're grown in and well rooted I'll transplant the whole thing to the tank. The netting is suppose to help me retain the gravel while I place it in the tank. I normally have a sheet of plastic covering the cups for humidity and moisture but I took them off to take the picture.
Here are the tank specs:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SIZE: 28 US gal. Bowfront. 19" (W) x 24" (H) x 12" (D)
LIGHTING: 2x65W CF 6500K, although I only use 1 of the bulbs for now run 10 hours/day. 2.3W/gal.
CO2: Pressurized. I'm kind of winging it right now. I haven't invested in a drop checker yet. I'm using ADA 30mm beetle ceramic diffuser and ADA basic bubble counter. I'm getting about 168 bpm. I don't know if it's too much or too little but I'm closely monitoring my fish, plants, and algae. I have the system on a timer and have it come on 1 hr. before the lights come on and off 30 min. before the lights turn off.
FILTER: Eheim ECCO 2232
SUBSTRATE: Combination of Eco-Complete and ADA Aquasoil Powder
MISC: Powerhead that sits above the CO2 forcing water down onto the front of the tank. The idea being that the CO2 will be circulated with the water down to the lower tank area. 160W heater maintaining about 80 deg. F.
DOSE: EI
Saturday, Monday, Wednesday
1/4tsp NO3
1/16 tsp KH2PO4
1/16 tsp K2SO4
Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday
10mL Flourish Trace (Recommended Dosage)
Everyday
5 mL Excel
Friday
50% water change + 15mL Excel
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I haven't done a whole lot of scaping. I do a little here and there to keep it looking nice. I'm just letting it grow in at this point and playing with different plants.
The HC:
I'm trying this technique with Lilaeopsis 'Mauritius' also:
I'm doing the hairgrass the old fashion way:
I'd also appreciate any comments on my dosing strategy and setup. I know I'm missing a few things here and there (I'm working up to it). If there's anything obvious that I'm missing, I'd welcome the suggestions. A million thanks for this great website and resource.
Regards,
Fellow Aquarium Plant Enthusiast