Trimming

[Jamiemurphy777]

Just planted a new tank and just a couple of questions on a few of the plans.

When should I start trimming java moss to keep it nice and compact to the wood it's on?

When should I start trimming glossostigma elatinoides?

Lastly, with Staurogyne repens how do you trim it to promote bushy growth?

Worth mentioning that these plants are inky on there 2nd day if being in the tank I'm just wondering when to start with the trimming?

Thanks

 

[milesjames]

When to start trimming is always a tricky question...

Its one where the answer is very much determined by plant health and current state.

If you are converting the plants don't rush this let the plant take hold first and go through the conversion then you can trim. If they are 1-2 GROW allow them to grow about double height and trim.

Moss is not my strong point but the same sort of stands if the health is good let it settle in. Compact growth can be achieved by trimming at any point as long as the hieght doesn't effect the health of the lower sections. Let it Bush out a little then trim to 2/3 height. This should allow it to stay compact whilst giving it time to root to its surface.

I thing I will say for sure is don't trim what is struggling manage the health then trim. Not the other way round the plants need energy to do what you want so hold off if there is discolouration or if they lack good general health.