Mesh to make moss backgrounds DIY

noledoc

Howdy,
I want to make moss backgrounds and decided on using mesh. There are articles available wi instructions but I'm stuck on finding the right material. I have a roll of plastic gutter guard with 1/4" dia openings. Seems like this may be too large but I'm not sure. It seems like openings of about 1/8" would be better. I can't find material online and am unclear if something appropriate is available. Do you have suggestions on suitable materials and exactly how to find it?

Again, i need advice from my fish elders here. I'm considering using riccia, Java Fern and Christmas Moss. Would it be feasible to use a firm piece of plastic (cut from lids of rubbermaid tubs) arrange the moss and then stretch the correct mesh over it? I could leave the mesh under water and proper lights with EI type Ferts and let it grow horizontally before placing it vertical on the back of the tank. Ideas? Suggestions? Please help.
Paul

aunt kymmie

How large of a wall do you want to make? Are you going to be using all three mosses? I don't think 1/4" openings are too large at all for Christmas Tree moss. I did a moss wall (which sadly was destroyed) of Christmas Tree moss and my material was black plastic mesh with 1/2" openings. I cut two pieces of the mesh in the exact same size, placed the moss in between, used black zip ties to hold the two pieces together and then used suction cups to adhere it to the back of the tank wall. It was great until my other half (while I was away on vacation) tried to free a tetra who had gotten stuck behind the wall. He decided a $3 fish was more important than a $200 moss wall. I was NOT happy.

I can find out from him where he got the plastic mesh, if you're interested. What is plastic gutter guard? I'm not familiar with that product.

noledoc

It's been a long time Kym. I've missed your cyber-self!
I want to have the necessary hardware ready to go. I've grown a bunch of riccia that is floating and growing like mad. I'm getting some Christmas Tree and Java in soon. Thinking of using the riccia as a mat on top of the substrate and any of the mosses to cover the small wall-front of terraces. Also part of the back walls too.
I am interested in knowing where to get the proper mesh.
Gutter guard I got at WalMart. It is fairly flimsy black plastic hardware cloth. It the 1/4" diameter openings aren't too big, it would be ideal I think.
What do you think about having a riccia wall built using a thin piece of plastic with the moss pressed down on it by the mesh?
And it's very good to be in contact. I hope you're well, happy and real fishy!

noledoc

Thanks for the help. I found a plastic company and have 1/8" mesh. It looks perfect. I bought Java Moss that looked really brown and funky as well as Christmas T moss that wasn't in the packet; from AZ Gardens. The lobelia dwarf looked terrific though.

aunt kymmie

Glad you found the mesh. I expect pictures as you go about setting up this moss wall.