Very easy method to start a new planted tank without any algae!(really)

[phanmc]

Algae can grow on the wet substrate but it won't be able to grow on the leaves of the plant itself, which is a common complaint for growers of HC, dwarf hairgrass, lilaeopsis, e. tenellus, etc. There's also no need to worry about excess fertilizers causing more algae. I know someone who uses MiracleGro, something no one would use in a water filled tank.

A big advantage is no CO2 limitation, the CO2 concentration in the air is enough. So for the inexperienced CO2 user, this is a great way to get a lush lawn. All bets are off once they do fill the tank off course.

Transplanting the whole carpet doesn't sounds like more work. Why grow a carpet in one tank and move it over to another when you can grow it in one and leave it there? This method allows you to grow the foreground around your hardscape, rather than having you transplant around your hardscape.

 

[plantbrain]

I know you are posting this in every forum, and I have read it several times and I just don't understand how this changes anything. Algae can gow on a wet rock, and certainly on wet "sedimant". All you need is moisture and light to grow algae. And how many plants can you grow in just a wet substrate? Anything other than a carpet plant? If all you want to do is grow carpet fast, you can do that in a shallow tray and then transplant the whole "carpet" into your aquarium. What is the advantage of what you are suggesting?

Need I explain the rather obvious benefits?
You have enough common sense to figure this out.
So do other folks here and elsewhere.
Sorry, I've not had issues with algae on sediment.
Algae on leaves is far worse.
Blackouts, flooding, excel, alum, etc works dandy to kill it and it's only for a few weeks till the tank's flooded.

Regards,
Tom Barr