Anyone Tried Low-Light Carpets?

[blazefox]

Yo, anyone got experience with low-light carpet plants? I'm setting up a 20-gallon with some Anubias and Java Fern, but wanna try a carpet. Heard Monte Carlo might work, but my light's kinda weak. Thoughts?

[amberly]

Monte Carlo can work in low light, but it'll grow slower. I've had success with Dwarf Hairgrass in my 15-gallon with just a basic LED. Just make sure your substrate's decent, and maybe add root tabs if it's inert.

[fisherby]

I've tried both Monte Carlo and Dwarf Hairgrass in low light. Monte Carlo took forever to spread, but Hairgrass filled in nicely after a few months. What's your substrate like? That'll make a big difference.

[silverbark]

Monte Carlo can work in low light, but it'll grow slower. I've had success with Dwarf Hairgrass in my 15-gallon with just a basic LED. Just make sure your substrate's decent, and maybe add root tabs if it's inert.

Yep, seconding the root tabs. I use Flourish tabs with my Hairgrass, and it's been thriving even with minimal light.

[keelmate9]

Honestly, I'd skip the carpet if your light's weak. Tried it once, and it was a mess. Ended up pulling it all out and going with moss instead. Way less hassle.

[blazefox]

Thanks for the tips, y'all. Gonna grab some Hairgrass and root tabs, see how it goes. Appreciate it!

[amberly]

Good luck! Keep us posted. Oh, and if you're using CO2, even a little bit can help speed things up. Not necessary, but it's a nice boost.

[fisherby]

Honestly, I'd skip the carpet if your light's weak. Tried it once, and it was a mess. Ended up pulling it all out and going with moss instead. Way less hassle.

Moss is a solid backup plan. Java Moss or Christmas Moss would work great in low light and still give that carpet vibe.

[silverbark]

If you're set on a carpet, maybe try Marsilea Hirsuta. It's slower than Monte Carlo but more forgiving with light. Just a thought.

[keelmate9]

Yeah, moss is chill. No fuss, no muss. Plus, it's great for shrimp if you're into that.