Why DSM Works
Carpet plants grow much faster emersed (out of water) than submerged. They get unlimited atmospheric CO2 and direct light.
No algae — algae needs water to grow. By the time you flood, the carpet is fully established and outcompetes any algae attempting to colonize.
Step 1: Prepare Substrate
Aqua soil (ADA Amazonia) is essential. Provides nutrients to growing roots.
Slope substrate from back to front. Final water depth and look will be determined now.
Spray substrate damp (not waterlogged).
Step 2: Plant
Tissue culture cups are best. Separate into pinches and plant every 1–2 cm in the substrate.
For HC Cuba: 1/4-inch pieces, 1 cm apart.
For Monte Carlo: 1/2-inch pieces, 2 cm apart.
For Glossostigma: 1/2-inch pieces, 2 cm apart.
Step 3: Cover and Mist
Cover the tank with plastic wrap (Saran wrap) to create greenhouse humidity.
Spray mist 2–3 times daily with dechlorinated water. Substrate should remain damp but not waterlogged.
Step 4: Light
Standard tank lighting at 8–10 hours per day.
No CO2 needed (atmospheric CO2 is plenty for emersed growth).
Step 5: Wait 4–8 Weeks
Plants spread aggressively. HC Cuba carpets in 4–6 weeks. Monte Carlo and Glosso in 3–4 weeks.
Watch for mold (white fluff): increase ventilation, reduce misting.
Keep humidity high (90%+) under the plastic wrap.
Step 6: Flood
When carpet is fully established, flood the tank slowly with a hose at the back corner.
Plants will transition from emersed (out-of-water) form to submersed (in-water) form over 1–2 weeks. Some leaf melt is normal.
Start CO2 immediately on flooding to support transition.
Step 7: Stock
Cycle the tank for 4 weeks before adding fish. Aqua soil leaches ammonia during this period.
Add stocking gradually. Carpet plants are now established and resistant to algae.