Introduction
Java Fern is a beautiful and popular aquatic plant that is popular among aquarists for its ease of maintenance and attractive foliage. It is part of the family of aquatic plants called the Polypodiaceae, and is native to Southeast Asia. It is an easy plant to care for and can be tied to driftwood, rocks, or to aquarium gravel. The best part about tying Java Fern is that it can be done in a few easy steps.
What You Will Need
To tie Java Fern, you will need the following materials: Java Fern, aquarium safe silicone, aquarium safe scissors, aquarium safe thread, aquarium safe glue, aquarium safe rocks, and driftwood. All of these items can be found at your local pet store or online.
Step 1: Preparing the Java Fern
The first step in tying Java Fern is to prepare the plant. Start by gently removing the rhizome from the substrate. If the rhizome is attached to a rock or a piece of driftwood, use aquarium safe scissors to cut the rhizome away. If the rhizome is attached to an aquarium gravel substrate, use aquarium safe glue to loosen it and then carefully remove it.
Step 2: Attaching the Java Fern to Driftwood, Rocks, or Aquarium Gravel
Once the rhizome has been removed, it is time to attach the Java Fern to a new substrate. Use aquarium safe silicone to attach the rhizome to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium gravel. Start by putting a small amount of silicone on the substrate and then press the rhizome firmly against it. Allow the silicone to dry, which will take a few hours.
Step 3: Tying the Java Fern
Once the Java Fern is firmly attached to the substrate, it is time to tie it in place. Use aquarium safe thread to tie the rhizome in place. Start by making a loop around the rhizome and then tying it firmly. Make sure the tie is tight enough to hold the plant in place, but not too tight as to damage the rhizome.
Step 4: Finishing the Job
Once the Java Fern has been securely tied in place, use aquarium safe glue to secure the thread in place. Apply a small amount of glue to the knot and allow it to dry completely. This will ensure the knot will not come undone and the Java Fern will stay securely in place.
Conclusion
Tying Java Fern is a relatively simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. All you need is aquarium safe silicone, aquarium safe thread, aquarium safe glue, driftwood, rocks, and a Java Fern rhizome. With the right materials and a little patience, you can easily tie Java Fern in place and enjoy its beautiful foliage for years to come.