Securing HC to substrate

Hi Gerry,

I'm using a different substrate from you, but the grain size's about the same. (2-3mm)

For planting HC, I separate them as much as I can, about 5 stalks per cluster. Then I plant them very deep into the substrate with a pair of tweezers, leaving only the leaves above the soil.
*remember not to crush the roots/stems. A previous experience resulted in them melting very quickly.

With the above planting, I'm able to spot growth within 2 weeks.
I use approx 72W on a 30G.

P.S. I'd think the paper clip might be bad. I've seen badly rusted paper clips in toilet bowls.

Regards,
Ryan

 

I'd suspect clumps that big would still want to lift off after only two weeks and any new leaves would also make the clumps even more bouyant.

I only plant a few sprigs together at a time using thin tipped tweezers. Push them down in, release and twist the tweezers around a bit so the substrate falls in around the plant before you pull the tweezers back out.