Who Gives A Fish Forums

My Anubias and Java Ferns have been in my 20-gallon tank for months, but they're not spreading like I expected. I've got a Finnex Planted+ light, CO2 injection, and use Thrive fertilizer weekly. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. What am I missing?

Anubias and Java Ferns are slow growers, especially if they're not getting enough light or nutrients. How long are you running your light each day? Also, are you dosing any micronutrients? They might need more than just Thrive.

folkor wrote: ↑Fri Aug 08, 2025 9:08 pm Anubias and Java Ferns are slow growers, especially if they're not getting enough light or nutrients. How long are you running your light each day? Also, are you dosing any micronutrients? They might need more than just Thrive.

Yep, I'd second that. I had the same issue until I bumped my photoperiod to 8 hours and added iron. They're still slow, but at least they're putting out new leaves now.

Could be your substrate too. Anubias and Java Ferns are epiphytes, so they don't need much, but if you've got them buried in sand or gravel, they might not be happy. Try attaching them to driftwood or rocks instead.

I'm kinda new to this, but my plants took forever to spread until I started using root tabs. Maybe that'll help? I dunno, just throwing it out there.

yo, check your flow. if the water's too still, the plants ain't getting enough co2 or nutrients circulated. my anubias took off when i tweaked my filter output.

How often are you doing water changes? If you're dosing ferts but not changing water regularly, you might be building up excess nutrients that could stunt growth.

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try adjusting the light period and maybe add some iron. They're attached to driftwood, so substrate shouldn't be the issue. Appreciate the help!

neonwing wrote: ↑Sat Aug 09, 2025 2:03 am yo, check your flow. if the water's too still, the plants ain't getting enough co2 or nutrients circulated. my anubias took off when i tweaked my filter output.

That's a good point. I had to adjust my flow too. Sometimes it's the little things that make the biggest difference.

I've heard some folks say their plants didn't spread until they added more fish. The waste acts as fertilizer. Maybe try adding a few more fish if your tank can handle it?