The java fern has made it to us from streams and rivers in Southeast Asia. It usually greens 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 have to form a firm connection.
Java fern is not planted but tied up
challenge rhizome
Java fern forms rhizomes at the base. The shoots, which grow horizontally, like to be washed by water. For this reason, 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 in such a way that the plant does not experience any restrictions.
Sitting up as an alternative
In order to protect the rhizome, the java fern is cultivated as a so-called epiphytic plant in the aquarium. A suitable opportunity must be created for this beforehand. There are:
- stones
- root pieces
- other decorative items
It is up to you which item you choose. Stones and roots come from nature and blend harmoniously into the planting of the aquarium. Other decorative items, however, can allow attachment to a side wall.
tips
Suitable pieces of root that have grown in swampy areas can be obtained from aquarium supply stores.
untie
After just a few weeks, the java fern will firmly grasp the object presented with its roots. The time until then, however, he must be firmly tied. A fishing line or another stable sewing thread is suitable for this.
- untie outside of the pool
- Position fern optimally
- Tie roots securely, but do not pinch
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 clinging roots, he can be freed from his bondage.
Of course, water temperature as well as others must also
Care is right so that the aquatic plant thrives after it has grown. Then small offshoots will form at the tips, with which the fern can be easily propagated.