HC Carpet Choking Stem Plants?

[Austin.b]

Once my carpet grows out, will it surround and kill the stem plants around it? Should I cut a water bottle and just stick the plastic in the substrate to prevent the roots from spreading too close to the stem plants? Thanks in advance!

 

[Austin.b]

Some pics of the current setup.

 

[aqua_chem]

Unless your HC gets super tall, it probably won't be an issue.

 

[Monkey Magic]

Stem plants get alot of nutrients from the water column could it ever be An issue??

 

[Austin.b]

I'm going to have it very thin all the time, but should I still place the plastic in the substrate just in case?

 

[CorallineAlgae]

I wouldn't bother but everybody has different methods. Most people who grow HC don't use a barrier for their stem plants but it could mean less work for you later (less trimming). Your stems should be fine either way. As long as water is flowing over the stems they'll get what they need, assuming your water is all good. By the look of your tank (beautiful btw) you seem to have your system set up nicely!

 

[Austin.b]

I wouldn't bother but everybody had different methods. Most people who grow HC don't use a barrier for their stem plants but it could mean less work for you later (less trimming). Your stems should be fine either way. As long as water is flowing over the stems they'll get what they need, assuming your water is all good. By the look of your tank (beautiful btw) you seem to have your system set up nicely!

Ok, I guess I'll pass on the barrier then. Thank you!!