Planting Java Moss/Willow Moss

I have been looking at some of the ground covering plants on other websites and I noticed that some say that they require no gravel. Where as other require rich gravel. Does this relate to the nutrient content of the substrate in your tank?

Also with Java Moss and Willow Moss do i just need to basically anchor it to the bottom of the tank and then nature will do the rest?

I am really sorry if these are basic questions but this would be my first adventure into plants and so I just want to be sure. Also is it correct that with a good ground covering I wouls no longer need to clean the bottom of my tank with a gravel hoover?

Also could I plant a combination of the two moss would one suffocate the other?

Don't be ever afraid to ask questions (Even the very, very basic ones) on this forum, it's somewhere for you to learn about them!

Here are the answers to your questions:

1. Generally, mosses do not require gravel or soil. You can simply tie them on bogwoods and rocks. It doesn't really relate to the nutrient content of your tank. Mosses can grow very well in an uncycled tank as well as a normal one.

2. It depends how you want to "use" it for. You can simply let it float, because after a few hours, the moss will eventually sink to the bottom of the tank. You can anchor them down if you like, or simply tie them on rocks or bogwoods.

3. You should still regularly clean the bottom of your tank, but I think you can do it less often. Mosses wouldn't really suffocate another one if they are given enough space to grow.

Hope all these helps

Unlimitedfishboy

Thanks for the info Unlimitedfishboy I am thinking of getting some java moss and willow moss very soon!!!!

Hey newbury_ian--good luck with the mosses! I have seen some amazing tank set ups with the moss tied to the driftwood. Post some pics. when you have it ready! Let me know how they work out--I have always wanted to try mosses.

I will certainly post some pics once I get the mosses in place. I also need to get some pics of my two otos. They are so cool and are probably my favourite fish that I have. Although sometimes they are very difficult to find. They seem to be very good at hiding even though there is nothing brown in my tank!!!!