I've got a couple Java Ferns and I've noticed they're developing runners on the leaves. Now, these leaves have another plant with roots growing on them - should I cut the whole leaf off and plant it, detach the runner, or just leave it be? I've never replanted Java Ferns before, and I have mine mounted on an ornament since I've heard they have a rhizome, just like Anubias. But I've seen people plant them in the substrate and still have great-looking leaves and a healthy plant.
Also, I've got a question about my Madagascar Lace - is it really as finicky as everyone says? Does it require pumped CO2, and how big can it get? I'm also curious about the leaf formation - how far down the stem do the actual leaves start to form? I'm not really sure how to phrase this, but any insight would be appreciated.
Growing and propagating java fern runners
Re: Growing and propagating java fern runners
I've got a couple Java Ferns with runners on the leaves, and there's another plant growing on them with roots. I'm not sure what to do - cut the whole leaf off and plant it, detach the runner, or just leave it as is. I've never replanted Java Ferns before, but I've mounted mine on an ornament since I've heard they have a rhizome like anubias. However, I've seen people plant them in the substrate and still have great results.
If you bury the rhizome in the substrate, it might rot - not always, but it's a common issue. The rhizome is more like a stem where the leaves and roots grow from, rather than a true root. The roots can grow into the substrate, but it's the rhizome that's sensitive.
Regarding the plant growing on the leaf, you can either leave it or remove it and plant it elsewhere. If you choose to remove it, just gently pull it away from the leaf. I usually wait until the leaves of the new plant are around 2-3 inches before doing so. You can then attach it to wood or rock using black cotton thread. If you leave it on the parent leaf, it might continue to grow or break off on its own. Sometimes these plants can be decorative on the parent leaf, so it's up to you.
As for the Madagascar Lace Plant, I've heard it's not an easy one to care for. I've never tried it myself, so I'll leave the technical questions to someone with experience.
If you bury the rhizome in the substrate, it might rot - not always, but it's a common issue. The rhizome is more like a stem where the leaves and roots grow from, rather than a true root. The roots can grow into the substrate, but it's the rhizome that's sensitive.
Regarding the plant growing on the leaf, you can either leave it or remove it and plant it elsewhere. If you choose to remove it, just gently pull it away from the leaf. I usually wait until the leaves of the new plant are around 2-3 inches before doing so. You can then attach it to wood or rock using black cotton thread. If you leave it on the parent leaf, it might continue to grow or break off on its own. Sometimes these plants can be decorative on the parent leaf, so it's up to you.
As for the Madagascar Lace Plant, I've heard it's not an easy one to care for. I've never tried it myself, so I'll leave the technical questions to someone with experience.