Why Are My Plants Not Rooting?

[bigfish]

My Anubias and Java Fern aren't rooting properly in my 20-gallon tank. I've got them tied to driftwood with fishing line, but after three weeks, there's barely any new growth. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Using a Finnex Planted+ light for 8 hours a day. Substrate is inert gravel. Any ideas what's going wrong?

[aurix]

It sounds like your plants might not be getting enough nutrients. Anubias and Java Fern are slow growers, but they still need some fertilization. Have you tried adding a liquid fertilizer like Seachem Flourish? Also, make sure the rhizomes aren't buried in the substrate, that can cause rot.

[fluxion]

I had the same issue with my Anubias until I switched to a nutrient-rich substrate. Inert gravel doesn't provide much for the plants. You might wanna consider root tabs if you don't want to change the substrate. Also, check your light intensity, too much can cause algae to outcompete the plants.

[betonx]

Yo, bigfish, chill, it's not the end of the world. Those plants are slow as molasses. Give 'em time. But yeah, like aurix said, some liquid ferts wouldn't hurt. And maybe bump the light to 10 hours, see if that kicks things into gear.

[Lippyton]

Anubias and Java Fern are epiphytes, so they don't root like other plants. They attach to surfaces over time. Three weeks isn't long enough to see significant growth. Patience is key. Also, make sure the water flow isn't too strong, that can dislodge them before they attach.

[Flynnex]

Hey, bigfish, I'm kinda new to this, but my plants started rooting better when I added some CO2. Not sure if that's your issue, but it worked for me. Also, my tank's got a sponge filter, so the flow's pretty gentle. Maybe that helps?

[floragenie]

I've had success with Anubias by misting the rhizomes with a diluted fertilizer solution before tying them to the driftwood. It gives them a little boost to start. Also, make sure the fishing line isn't too tight, it can damage the rhizome.

[anglermatic]

Bigfish, I feel your frustration. Plants can be finicky. Have you checked the temperature? Some plants prefer it a bit warmer. Also, if you've got any fish that like to nibble, they might be messing with the roots. Just a thought.

[aquafin]

The plants will root eventually. Ensure the water parameters are stable. Fluctuations can stress them. Also, avoid moving them around too much. Stability is crucial for rooting.

[bronzel]

I agree with aurix and fluxion. Nutrients are likely the issue. I'd start with a comprehensive liquid fertilizer and see how the plants respond. Also, keep an eye on algae, as it can compete with the plants for nutrients.