Java Fern Q

kazinvan

kazinvan

AC Members
Oct 27, 2008
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I have 2 Java Fern's in my tank and noticed that they are sprouting roots from the underside of their leaves. I read that these are not supposed to be buried in the sand, roots should be free to root in wood, etc. I don't have any wood in my tank now, would it be a good idea to add some for the fern to root into? What are my options here? I don't want a big piece of wood at this point, no space. Also, should the roots coming from the leaves be allowed to attach to something? Seems odd to me, some advice needed.
 
First of all the "mother" fern, is it's rhizome buried if so you will need to unbury it or it will rot. The roots growing from the underside of the leaves are the first sign of baby ferns. You don't have to attach it to wood any decor will work.
 
None of the ferns are buried, they are actually just held near the bottom with rocks. I'm just not sure about the roots on the leaves, do you let them attach to rocks,etc? Wouldn't that look weird to have a broad leaf plant flat on a rock?
 
Java fern is an unusual plant. You can simply attach it to a rock with some thread if you want it to stay in one place. It will eventually cover the rock with new roots and some will go into the substrate. Trim any wild ones that dont look OK.

As far as the little roots off the leaves go... if you want to propagate small Javas then leave the roots alone and soon new plants will sprout on the leaves. If you don't want to propagate plants then prune the roots if you don't like the look.

You needn't do anything special with the roots if thats what you want to know.

Q
 
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