I have 2 aquariums, i got a java fern for each because i was told they were an easy fast growing plant, but i think there dying, they have dark spots on some of there leaves, so I'm thinking they need some fertilizer, we don't have a pet store around here that i can get to, so I'm kinda stuck with walmart, does anyone know if walmart has a fish-safe fertilizer? do you know what its called or what i should look for?
2007-06-05 13:28:31 · 7 answers · asked by donny 2 in Pets ➔ Fish
the 10gal has 30watts (two 15watt bulbs)
im not sure what the 29gal tank has, the light doesnt say..
As for having them tied down.. i dont really have any porus rocks in there, can i tie them to a regular rock? ive been trying to find some natural driftwood, but havent been able to.. could you put a regular piece of wood in there? like a piece of a 2x4 or maybe a branch off a tree or something? would that be the same as drift wood?
2007-06-05 13:51:03 · update #1
Java Fern is a beautiful addition to the freshwater, planted aquarium. Growing around 8 inches tall, with creeping, green rhizomes, Java Ferns are well suited for not only planted aquariums, but also those that contain cichlids and other large South American fish.
Java Ferns will do well if planted in moderate light as well as in a shaded area. It is amphibious, meaning that it will grow either partially or fully submersed. Provide at least 2 watts per gallon of light supplied by full spectrum (5000-7000K) bulbs.
Java Ferns will thrive in an aquarium with an alkalinity of 3-8 dKH and a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. They will propagate by adventitious plants on leaves & roots, and rhizome division may also be seen. Java Fern looks great planted singly, or in groups if there is enough room in the aquarium.
2007-06-05 13:43:13 · answer #1 · answered by MudFrog 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Odds are good the dark spots you are seeing is actually algae. It can sometimes grow rather well on java fern. If however the dark spots are obviously dying leaves, you may need a little fertilizer. I would suggest a fertilizer with iron in it. Most of the cheaper brands do not contain iron and this is the element most likely missing in your tank. I doubt Walmart will sell what you need, but most online stores carry several brands.
MM
2007-06-05 13:40:34 · answer #2 · answered by magicman116 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
walmart sells api brand and their fertilizer is called leaf zone. i don't know if walmart has it though.
did you strap your java fern to a porus rock or wood i hope? they don't like being planted. keep them above the gravel.
they also go through a lot before they get to you so it could take a while before it is a happy healthy java fern. they grow fine for me in minimal light conditions and no fertilizer -- but they usually go through a period of not looking so great and then will start sprouting new growth.
2007-06-05 13:43:24 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do you have something you can tie the fern to like a piece of driftwood? They aren't fussy with pH or anything like that. You do need enough light (and not just room light)...anywhere between 1 - 1.5 watts of light per gallon in your tanks. Light needs to be on 8 - 10 hours a day.
They don't need fertilizer.
2007-06-05 13:38:05 · answer #4 · answered by Barb R 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Buy it online. I got a ton of aquarium supplies online and for a better price.
2007-06-05 13:38:17 · answer #5 · answered by Whatever 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have never seen it there, petco has small bottle for$4, tetra brand, works good!
2007-06-05 13:32:46 · answer #6 · answered by jra60411 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
http://drsfostersandsmith.com should have fertilizers that can be delivered to your door.
2007-06-12 05:42:23 · answer #7 · answered by Chris 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋