DifficultyMedium
Growth RateMed - Fast
Light NeedsMed - High
CO2 NeededRequired
Optimal pH6.0 - 7.5
PlacementForeground
✨ Why Ease-Aquatics 'Mini' Hairgrass?
Our 'Mini' strain is guaranteed to stay lower than standard acicularis, reaching only 3-6cm in height. It is locally acclimated to Pretoria water, meaning it skips the heavy "melt" phase typical of tissue cultures and starts sending out runners almost immediately.
Advanced Technical Info
- The "Mow" Secret: ⚠️ Pro Tip: Trimming the leaves down to 1-2cm immediately after planting triggers a hormonal response that forces the plant to send out underground runners rather than growing vertical foliage.
- Root Feeding: As a heavy root feeder, a nutrient-rich substrate or regular root tabs are essential for a dense, yellow-free lawn.
- Algae Warning: Due to its fine, needle-like leaves, it can trap hair algae easily. Ensure stable CO2 and good flow at the substrate level.
- Shrimp Safety: Perfect "turf" for baby shrimp to hide in while remaining visible to the viewer.
Care & Maintenance
- Substrate: Best grown in fine-grain aquasoil. The roots are delicate and struggle to penetrate large, heavy gravel.
- Trimming: Use sharp curved scissors once a month to maintain a flat "golf course" look.
- Light: Needs strong lighting to prevent "leggy" growth. High light ensures the carpet stays compact and low to the soil.
How to Propagate
- Plugs: Split your pot or mat into small 1cm "plugs."
- Planting: Use tweezers to plant plugs in a checkerboard pattern, spaced 2-3cm apart.
- Runner Spread: Once established, the underground runners will bridge the gaps, creating a solid green mat within 4-8 weeks depending on CO2 levels.
✅ Is this for you?
- You want a classic "lawn" or "prairie" look.
- You have the patience to plant small plugs individually.
- You want a carpeting plant that is slightly more forgiving than Monte Carlo.