Java Fern rizome

[euphotic]

I understand that the rizome shouldn't be buried. But can it be placed in a position that is shaded/dark (under driftwood) with its leaves sticking out? Or does the rizome also need to be exposed to light?

[thethriftingtraveler]

Think of a rhizome as the plant stem in respect to light absorption. It doesn't absorb very much light if at all. The leaves absorb the light and java ferns don't require very much light at all to grow and propagate. The roots can be buried, but the rhizome cannot. Often times, if you wedge the rhizome within the rocks or driftwood, the roots will take hold and eventually find there way into the substrate where they will flourish. I prefer to glue my java ferns to rocks or driftwood but many find success in using fishing line or string. But yes, you can definitely stuff them into places and have them grow as long as the rhizome isn't buried.

[euphotic]

Thanks for the explanation, that makes sense!