I see all kinds of lovely carpet and low growing plants in the TFH magazine that I get and also around the web but seem to mostly find taller plants in the local stores. Are there any stores around Ottawa that specialize in plants? Where do people recommend?
I've yet to see any low growing (carpet) plants at any LFSs. Your best bet is to get them off your fellow aquarists.
I saw hairgrass from time to time in BA and SPS, but never any fancier onces. Look out in the classifieds as you can find them there sometimes. And come to the auctions, especially the big one. There you will probably find what you are looking for.
Go to the meeting's mini auctions. Last Monday of the month except July/August/December.