How to Plant a Java Fern in an Aquarium

The java fern is among the most beginner-friendly of all aquarium plants. If you can stock fish in your aquarium, you can grow a java fern. These hardy plants readily attach themselves to rocks, driftwood, aquarium decorations and just about any surface by wrapping their roots around that surface. Once the java fern is in place, it can grow quite readily, even if your thumb is less than green.

Things You'll Need

  • Rubber bands
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find the best spot in your tank for the java fern. One of the biggest advantages of java ferns is that they can grow virtually anywhere. Java ferns readily clamp on to rocks, driftwood and other aquatic decorations. Once the roots attach themselves, the plant continues to grow and adheres where you put it.

    • 2

      Attach the roots of the java fern to the rock or driftwood formation you want it to grow on. Wrap a rubber band around the driftwood or rock and the java fern roots. Use a separate rubber band for each root to give the plant a good chance to attach itself in the aquarium.

    • 3

      Watch the java fern carefully, particularly the roots. Carefully snip and remove the rubber bands after the roots have wrapped themselves around the rock or driftwood where the plant is attached.