The Java fern has made it to us from streams and rivers in Southeast Asia. It usually plants aquariums, but can also be planted in terrariums. While its long, narrow leaves are allowed to sway back and forth in the water, the roots must form a firm connection.
How to plant Java fern correctly?
To plant Java fern successfully, you should attach it as an epiphyte to stones, roots or decorative objects by tying its roots with fishing line or sewing thread. After a few weeks, the fern will adhere on its own and can be freed from the binding.
Challenge Rhizome
Java fern forms rhizomes at the base. The shoot axes, which grow horizontally, want to be surrounded by water. That's why Java fern must not be planted in the traditional sense, otherwise the rhizomes will rot. The recommendation that planting in coarse gravel should be possible should also be treated with caution.
The roots of the Java fern still need a firm hold. Planting must therefore implement two requirements so that the plant does not experience any restrictions.
Sitting up as an alternative
In order to protect the rhizome, the Java fern is cultivated in the aquarium as a so-called epiphyte plant. An appropriate opportunity must first be created for this. The following are available:
- Stones
- Root pieces
- other decorative items
Which item you choose is up to you. Stones and roots come from nature and fit harmoniously into the aquarium plants. However, other decorative items can be attached to a side wall.
Tip
Suitable root pieces (€18.00 on Amazon) that have grown in swampy areas can be found in aquarium supply stores.
Untie
After just a few weeks, the Java fern will firmly grasp the presented object with its roots. Until then, however, he must be tied tightly. A fishing line or other sturdy sewing thread is suitable for this.
- tie up outside the pool
- Optimally position the fern
- Tie roots securely, but do not constrict them
You can also glue the roots of the Java fern with a special glue or clamp them between two or more stones.
Place Java fern
Place the tied fern in the aquarium so that it does not get too much light. After he has developed new attachment roots, he can be freed from his bondage.
Of course, the water temperature and other care must be right so that the aquatic plant thrives after it has grown. Small offshoots will then form at the tips, with which the fern can be easily propagated.
