Thanks for all the replies.
The $2 pack I got is about half the volume of the $4-something NZ pack from FEF, so I guess it all works out. After all, it is FEF selling the moss
I think this has been mentioned before, but I'd just like to check the conditions of the successful growers again:
1. Do u shred the LFS or just put everything as they are?
2. How much light? Full sun or partial shade? I think this is the problem for me -- getting the right amount of light.
3. As Jason asked, how do u differentiate between newly-growing live LFS and algae? Will the brown dried LFS just turn green on the surface (like guqin's pic) or will small growing tips appear? I have some small hair like plants on some of my LFS, but I've been advised on the CPUK forum that that's just some kind of weed.
4. Finally, do u just put the dried LFS in a pot with a cover, or without a cover? On peat or without medium?
I'm trying to grow the moss as a backup to the live ones I currently have, in case they die. And a pot of them did -- their tips turned white and the whole thing looked like frost covered moss. Luckily, they're turning green now with much more watering.