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My Java Ferns keep melting no matter what I do. I've got a 20-gallon tank, LED lighting for 8 hours a day, and my water params are solid, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Substrate is sand, and I dose liquid ferts once a week. What's the deal?

That sounds frustrating. Java Ferns can be tricky sometimes. Have you checked your water hardness? They prefer softer water, and if it's too hard, they might struggle. Also, how's your flow? They don't like strong currents.

Yep, Java Ferns can be drama queens. I had the same issue until I moved mine to a lower-flow spot. Also, are you burying the rhizome? That's a big no-no. They'll rot if you do.

Yep, Java Ferns can be drama queens. I had the same issue until I moved mine to a lower-flow spot. Also, are you burying the rhizome? That's a big no-no. They'll rot if you do.

Mine melted when I first got them too. Turns out they were just adjusting. Give it a few weeks, and they might bounce back. Are they new plants?

fable95 wrote: ↑Wed Apr 16, 2025 5:54 am That sounds frustrating. Java Ferns can be tricky sometimes. Have you checked your water hardness? They prefer softer water, and if it's too hard, they might struggle. Also, how's your flow? They don't like strong currents.

My water's pretty hard, actually. Maybe that's it. Flow is moderate, but I'll try moving them to a calmer spot.

Hard water could definitely be the culprit. Try adding some driftwood or almond leaves to soften it a bit. Also, make sure they're not getting too much light. Java Ferns are low-light plants.

taylex8 wrote: ↑Wed Apr 16, 2025 9:05 am Mine melted when I first got them too. Turns out they were just adjusting. Give it a few weeks, and they might bounce back. Are they new plants?

Yeah, if they're new, they might just be throwing a fit. Plants can be weird like that.

If they're new, just chill and give 'em time. Mine looked like garbage for a month before they perked up. Now they're thriving. Patience is key with these guys.