DSM for Eleocharis Belem.

[sAroock]

I want to grow a lush lawn of Eleocharis Belem (DHG).

I’m trying to decide what will be the best approach, the Dry Start Method (DSM) or submerged growing.

I’m thinking of DSM;
-Will the hairgrass melt when it goes emerged to submerge, does the plant adjust well?
-Does DSM give faster growth than a high tech submerged environment?
-How tall does Eleocharis Belem grow?

This is the setup, it’s very simple hardscape, I just want to see whether I can successful get a carpet first.
-20G, Co2 kit, high lighting @ x3 24w, internal and canister filter, ADA substrate.
I have success with hardier and stem plants. Haven't tried any foregrounds yet.




Any input or experience with DSM and DHG will be great.

[Darkblade48]

The Hairgrass will melt back when you convert from DSM to submerged.

I feel that DSM gives faster growth than submerged; in addition, you have no hassles due to algae.

I have found Eleocharis belem grows to ~5 cm in height.

[BruceF]

I grew some emersed in about an inch of water last summer outside. When I brought it in for the winter I raised the water in the tank so that it was completely covered. I really didn’t notice any difference. I haven’t used any added co2 with it. It seems like a pretty easy plant.

[aokashi]

i never lost belem when transitioning from dry start. even when I moved it from almost dry soil + no humidity to completely submerged, no CO2. it continued to spread and grow