Attaching plants to driftwood?

M

MichiganMan

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Sep 21, 2008
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I've read several places (actually, *many* places) that certain plants should be "attached" to driftwood rather than actually planted in the substrate. I've read recommendations for using fishing line to perform that task.

But, I've never actually seen or read anything that describes *how* to do the actual attachment - how tight or loose, do you leave it tied down forever, etc. Can anyone explain (in really small words ;) ) how to do this?

Many many thanks!!

:newbie:
 
There are several methods that I've used in the past. You can use fishing line, wrap it around whatever you're attaching (java moss/fern, anubias, etc) a bunch of times and tie the ends together. This fishing line will stay on forever if you don't remove it after your plants have rooted; but it's clear. The other thing you can do is use sewing thread in the same way you use fishing line. This will gradually dissolve over time. I've done both and don't really have a preference other than I usually have thread, not fishing line on hand.

I've heard of other people using super glue, but I've never done so.
 
Whether you use fishing line or sewing thread, you don't want to tie or wrap it so tightly that you injure or kill the plant. You only need to wrap or tie it enough that the plant is held securely in place given the water current and fish activity in your tank.
 
I have used both fishing line and super glue. Both work great for me. When I use fishing line, I make sure to just tie it tight enough to hold it to the plant, but not so tight that it is cutting into the plant or the roots. Before tying it, I just wrap the line around the plant and the wood a few times.

When I use super glue, I just use a little glue on a spot on the wood or rock where I want the plant and then place the plant on it. I think the super glue might stain the wood though, not sure about that, so it might not be good if you are not placing the plant their permanently.
 
Even though it looks like you have plenty of helpful responses I'll throw in my own two cents =] I've used fishing line, sewing thread (the super thin kind), zip ties, and those twisty tie things (if you know what I mean...) All have worked very well, but in my opinion clear fishing line and the thin white thread are best because you can't see them. Super glue also works, but for some reason I have always avoided doing that method.
Hope this was helpful:dance2:
 
Mgamer20o0 said:
if you use the liquid super glue make sure it drys before putting it back in the tank. i also use paper towl to dry the wood and plant before trying to attach it. there is a super glue gel that can even be used under water. personally i like the super glue over the fishline/cotton line.
Click to expand...


Yeah mine is gel...I never even thought about what using the liquid would be like. I am far too much of a klutz to risk dripping on myself and gluing the plant to me instead of the wood. lol
 
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