Gluing aquarium plants, especially epiphytes like Anubias, Java Fern, or Bucephalandra, onto rocks or driftwood is a popular method for aquascaping. It provides a secure way to attach plants without burying their rhizomes, which can lead to rot.
What You Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies:
- Aquarium-safe super glue (cyanoacrylate-based gel is often preferred as it's less messy)
- The rock you want to attach the plant to
- The aquarium plant (ensure it's suitable for attaching, not a stem plant)
- A small bowl or container of aquarium water
- Optional: Tweezers, paper towel
Step-by-Step Guide
Here's how to effectively glue plants to rocks for your aquarium:
- Prepare the Rock: Take the rock you plan to use. According to the reference, wetting the surface of the rock first is helpful. You can do this by simply dipping the rock into some aquarium water. Having a damp surface can sometimes help the glue cure faster when the plant is applied.
- Prepare the Plant: Select the portion of the plant you want to attach. Trim any excess roots if necessary, but be careful not to damage the rhizome (the thick horizontal stem where leaves and roots grow from). Make sure the attachment point on the plant (usually the rhizome) is relatively dry. Gently patting it with a paper towel can help.
- Apply the Glue: There are two main ways to apply the glue, as mentioned in the reference:
- Apply Directly to the Rock: Put a small dab or line of the aquarium-safe super glue gel onto the specific spot on the wet rock where you want the plant to sit.
- Apply Directly to the Plant: Alternatively, apply a small amount of glue directly onto the dry attachment point of the plant's rhizome.
- Attach the Plant: Carefully place the prepared plant part onto the glue on the rock (or place the plant with glue onto the rock). Press down gently but firmly for 10-30 seconds. The glue cures very quickly when it comes into contact with water (either from the damp rock or if done underwater).
- Placement Check: Once the glue has set, gently tug on the plant to ensure it's securely attached. If it feels loose, you can add another small drop of glue to the edge where the plant meets the rock.
- Submerge (if done dry): If you did this process outside the tank, you can now carefully place the rock with the attached plant back into your aquarium. The glue is waterproof and safe once cured.
Tips for Success
- Use Gel Glue: Cyanoacrylate gel glue is thicker than liquid glue, making it easier to control and less likely to run.
- Work Quickly: Super glue cures fast, especially when wet. Have your plant and rock ready before applying the glue.
- Less is More: You don't need a large amount of glue. A small dab is usually sufficient for a secure hold. Excess glue can be unsightly.
- Keep it Aquarium Safe: Always use super glue labeled as aquarium safe, or verify that the ingredients are solely cyanoacrylate.
- Consider Alternative Mounts: While the reference mentions gluing directly, sometimes hobbyists will glue a small piece of rock wool or fishing line to the rock first, then attach the plant to that, providing more surface area or flexibility.
By following these steps, you can successfully attach your aquarium plants to rocks, creating a natural and beautiful look in your tank.
