Java Fern in Gravel

[nickmcmechan]

Hoping someone can clear this up, or at least get a debate going.

Should Java Fern be planted in Gravel or not?

I have read conflicting reports on this. Is it true that sometimes they are OK planted in gravel with UGF? Can you anchor just above the gravel? What sort of ferts would you use with this low light plant? And would you give a smaller dose?

 

[Lupin]

The important thing is not to bury the rhizome. I used Sera Florena which is a liquid fertilizer and Sera Florenette which I bury under the substrate near rooted plants. Nick, I'd rather suggest you anchor that plant among decorations instead of taking chances planting them on substrate.

 

[jm1212]

i wouldnt plant them on the gravel if you have a UGF. attach the java moss onto a piece of driftwood...it will make for a pretty cool piece of decor too.

 

[OldMan1947]

When I first got them I had no advice from anybody so I planted them. 2 months later I had only one left. When I was told not to plant the rhizome I went back and looked. The one that I still had that was flourishing was the one I had failed to plant properly. Only about half of the roots were in the substrate and the rhizome was well above it. My learning was that I needed to find out before blindly planting anything.

 

[Mgamer20o0]

attach it to wood or a rock or something. best kept out of the gravel.

 

[duke33]

Mine just wanders around, sometimes attaching to some gravel.

 

[irishspy]

Should Java Fern be planted in Gravel or not?

Just either let it free-float over the gravel, or tie it to some rock or driftwood with some sewing twine. Never bury the rhizome in gravel.

 

[boostnbuds]

if he had a ugf wouldnt the flow of water through the substrate be sufficient to keep the rhizome from rotting?

 

[nickmcmechan]

if he had a ugf wouldnt the flow of water through the substrate be sufficient to keep the rhizome from rotting?

and there lies the other side of the story!

 

[AudraM]

I have a related question. When attaching to a rock, just tie it where I want it and it will eventually adhere itself? Also, how long can I expect that to take? I have java fern on bogwood I just kinda stuck in holes and some lace java fern I would like to attach to a rock.