Java ferns (Microsorum pteropus) are an attractive and hardy aquatic plant, often seen in aquariums, paludariums and terrariums. They are easy to care for and ideal for beginners. Java ferns are quite adaptable and can survive in a variety of aquariums, ranging from low to high light systems. Java ferns do not require any special fertilizer, as they can get all their nutrients from the water column and the substrate.
What is Fertilizer?
Fertilizers are substances that are added to soil or water to provide plants with essential nutrients. These nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as other micronutrients such as calcium. Fertilizers come in many forms, such as granular, liquid, and organic. The type of fertilizer you choose for your aquarium will depend on the type of plants you have, as well as the type of substrate and water conditions.
Do Java Ferns Need Fertilizer?
In most cases, Java ferns do not need fertilizer to survive. They are able to extract all the nutrients they need from the water column and the substrate. However, if your aquarium is heavily planted, or if you have a high light system, then you may want to consider adding a liquid fertilizer to supplement the nutrients that your Java ferns are not getting from the water column and the substrate. Liquid fertilizers are also beneficial if you are growing other aquatic plants in your aquarium.
How to Fertilize Java Ferns
If you decide to fertilize your Java ferns, it is best to use a liquid fertilizer that is specifically formulated for aquatic plants. There are many different brands available, so it is important to do your research and choose one that is suitable for your aquarium. When using liquid fertilizer, it is best to dose it once a week, at about one-quarter of the recommended dosage. This will ensure that your Java ferns are getting all the nutrients they need without over-fertilizing your aquarium.
Can You Over-Fertilize Java Ferns?
Yes, it is possible to over-fertilize your Java ferns. If your aquarium is over-fertilized, the Java ferns will experience a decrease in growth and may become discolored or yellow. To avoid this, it is important to only dose your aquarium with liquid fertilizer once a week, and at a rate of one-quarter of the recommended dosage. If you are unsure of the correct dosage, it is best to contact the manufacturer of the fertilizer or consult with a local aquarium expert.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Java ferns do not typically require fertilizer to survive, as they can get all the nutrients they need from the water column and the substrate. However, if your aquarium is heavily planted or you have a high light system, then you may benefit from adding a liquid fertilizer to supplement the nutrients that your Java ferns are not getting from the water column and the substrate. When using liquid fertilizer, make sure to dose it at one-quarter of the recommended dosage and only once a week to avoid over-fertilizing your aquarium.