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I've been struggling with trimming my Anubias and Java Fern without causing them to melt or stop growing. What's the best way to cut them back without stressing the plants too much? I'm using a 20-gallon tank with moderate lighting and CO2 injection.

For Anubias, I've found it's best to trim the older leaves at the base of the rhizome. Just make sure you're using sharp scissors to avoid crushing the tissue. Java Fern is a bit more forgiving, but you still wanna avoid cutting too many leaves at once.

Yep, sharp tools are key. I've messed up before with dull scissors and ended up with brown, dying edges. Also, try to trim after a water change when the plants are already in a good state. My tank's got a sand substrate and I dose liquid ferts weekly.

goldenfin wrote: ↑Sun May 04, 2025 1:40 pm I've been struggling with trimming my Anubias and Java Fern without causing them to melt or stop growing. What's the best way to cut them back without stressing the plants too much? I'm using a 20-gallon tank with moderate lighting and CO2 injection.

Honestly, dude, just chill with the trimming. Plants need time to recover. I only cut mine like once a month, and they're thriving in my low-tech setup.

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try trimming fewer leaves at a time and see how they respond.

My plants always die when I trim them. Maybe I'm doing it wrong. What kind of scissors do you guys use?

Get some aquarium-specific scissors, man. Regular ones are sketchy for this job. I use the Fluval ones, and they've been solid for my 10-gallon planted tank.

I've heard some people dip the scissors in hydrogen peroxide before trimming to prevent infection. Has anyone tried that?

jinxo wrote: ↑Sun May 04, 2025 8:42 pm I've heard some people dip the scissors in hydrogen peroxide before trimming to prevent infection. Has anyone tried that?

That's overkill for most plants. Just keep your tools clean and you'll be fine. I rinse mine with tank water before and after trimming.

Yeah, hydrogen peroxide seems like a weird vibe for this. I've never had issues with just clean scissors. My tank's got a sponge filter and I keep the temp at 78°F, which might help the plants recover faster.