To tie down Java fern, you secure its rhizome (the thick horizontal stem from which roots and leaves grow) to a surface like driftwood or rock using aquarium-safe thread or fishing line.
Java fern (Microsorum pteropus) is an epiphytic plant, meaning it naturally grows attached to surfaces rather than rooted in substrate. Tying or gluing it down is crucial because burying the rhizome in gravel or sand will cause it to rot and the plant to die.
Based on the provided reference, the process involves taking a suitable piece of the plant, positioning it on the desired surface (like driftwood), and spreading it out slightly before securing it.
Why Tie Down Java Fern?
- Avoids Rhizome Rot: Prevents the critical rhizome from being buried, ensuring the plant's survival.
- Mimics Natural Growth: Allows the plant to attach to hardscape as it would in its native environment.
- Placement Flexibility: Lets you place Java fern on driftwood, rocks, or even tank decorations for aesthetic appeal.
- Promotes Attachment: Provides initial stability until the plant's roots naturally grip the surface.
Materials Needed
You will need just a few simple items to tie down your Java fern:
- Java fern plant (a whole plant or a division)
- Driftwood, rock, or other suitable hardscape
- Aquarium-safe tying material:
- Aquarium-safe cotton thread: Will eventually rot away as the plant attaches.
- Fishing line (monofilament): Very durable but doesn't break down. Can be less visible.
- Scissors (optional, for cutting thread/line)
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to successfully tie your Java fern to a surface:
- Prepare the Plant: If you have a large plant, you can divide it by cutting the rhizome with clean scissors or simply snapping it apart. Ensure each division has some roots and leaves.
- Choose Your Spot: Decide where on the driftwood or rock you want to attach the fern.
- Position the Fern: Take a piece of the Java fern. Place it directly on the surface. As shown in the reference, you might need to "spread it out" slightly on the surface to position the rhizome correctly. Ensure the rhizome is in contact with the hardscape, but the roots and leaves are free.
- Start Tying: Take your thread or fishing line and begin wrapping it around the rhizome and the hardscape.
- Wrap Securely: Wrap the material several times around the rhizome and the object, crisscrossing as needed to hold the rhizome firmly in place. Be careful not to wrap too tightly, which could damage the rhizome, but tight enough that the plant doesn't shift easily.
- Tie Off: Secure the end of the thread or line with a knot (a simple square knot or surgeon's knot works well). Trim any excess material, leaving just enough to ensure the knot doesn't come undone.
- Submerge: Place the tied-down plant and hardscape into your aquarium. The Java fern's roots will eventually grow and attach themselves to the surface, at which point you can remove the thread if you used cotton, or leave it if it's fishing line and not noticeable.
Remember, the key is to attach the rhizome to the surface, leaving the roots and leaves exposed to the water column.
