How to Grow Java Fern in an Aquarium?

In this article, we’ll learn everything about Java Ferns. There are many types of Java Ferns, like the Java Fern Trident, Java Fern Needle Leaf, Java Fern ‘Windelov’, Java Fern Narrow Leaf, and 15+ different types. All these require the same basic requirements. 

Growing Java Fern

When you get a Java Fern, it grows out of water. They are grown in a grow tent under high humidity which lets them grow with no algae. But they do struggle a little when they are submerged in the water. So, we’ll talk about how to get that transition and what to expect because it’s not as easy as just everything else and takes a while to convert. 

The first thing is, when you get them, you need to plant them. These plants have a rysome, which is the big chunky part that runs horizontally. They also have a lot of roots coming out, and lastly, there are the leaves. Your goal, if you are planning to plant them in gravel, is to have all the little hair-like roots go into the substrate. 

The big chunky part with all the leaves and stems coming up above the surface. An easy way to do this is to use lead weight to keep it on the gravel.  

However, if you are planning to plant these in the sand, the same concept applies here. But, the best way to plant these is to plant them on wood or substrate. The plant will have ample nutrients if it can grab onto the wood. 

Food 

The majority of the food that Jave ferns consume will come from the water. So, dosing water columns, and fertilizers like an easy green will help a ton. But when they can tap into the woods or the substrate, that’s an extra boost. So, if you already have wood in your tank, put it on there. 

After planting, it will take 2-4 months to transition. It’s a slow process. First, you’ll see browning leaves. Then the leaves will start forming seeds that’ll later sprout into little plants. Eventually, they’ll fall off and grab onto something. 

Nutrients for Faster Growth

To help this transition, you have to feed it ample nutrients with liquid fertilizers. Also, support it with Potassium.

If you want to grow the plant faster, you know what your Java Fern will be competing against. Since the Ferns are slow growers, they thrive in low light. However while they can grow faster in higher lights, most tanks with brighter lights have other plants that can utilize the light fertilizers.  

That’s why they need to be in a low-competition environment in the low lights. Injecting CO2 does help, but is not recommended for these plants. 

The Best Plant

Java Fern is a long-term commitment plant. You can plant it and it will look bad early on, slowly transitioning to a healthier appearance. Then, it can look good for a very long time, we are talking years. It’s a plant that most people keep growing. 

That’s what makes them a great plant. Once they are well, they will thrive with minimal care. This plant will adapt to you.