Java Fern Question

[pnyf]

So I just got some Java Fern to put in my tank. I used some black sewing thread to tie it to some rocks and things in the tank. I was wondering how long should I expect before it has attached itself to the rocks and the thread is no longer necessary. 
Thanks

 

[DrRob]

Can take a while, weeks to months, depends a lot on the growing conditions.

 

[DevotedToDiscus]

Don't worry, as the tread(assuming it is cotton) will rot away after the Fern has taken full hold. So just leave it.

 

[ech0o]

Don't worry, as the tread(assuming it is cotton) will rot away after the Fern has taken full hold. So just leave it.

+1    when i thread a fern down i generally will never touch it again, unless the thread has detached and needs to be removed. 

 

[pnyf]

Cool. I like how the tank is coming along. My only other successful live plant experience had been some swords that I just stuck in the gravel and proceeded to grow like weeds. These are the first plants I've had that needed to be tied to something.

 

[DrRob]

I just glue mine on. Superglue works fine so long as it's pure stuff.

 

[ech0o]

Yea I recently began glueing after some real success with moss, I doubt I will tie anything on again.

 

[pnyf]

How does the superglue work? Doesn't everything being wet make it so it doesn't stick?

 

[daizeUK]

You'd think so but it actually dries instantly on contact with water.  I have the best results when both surfaces are as dry as possible, apply a tiny smear of glue and bring them together quickly before the glue dries.  Hold for a few seconds and as soon as the two parts stick together you can put it straight in the tank.

 

[DrRob]

It does go white in water, just to warn you.

 

[Ch4rlie]

Is this using normal hardware store superglue or is this a special type of aquarium superglue that does not leach any chemicals to tank water once in tank?

 

[DrRob]

Anything with 100% cyanoacrylate.

 

[ech0o]

I notice not even having to have dry surfaces, I will stick wet plant to wet rock with a little superglue on it and blam, instant bond.   Yea there is some whiteness from the glue at first but i have noticed it go away fairly quickly as the plant starts growing.   This trick works WONDERS with moss.

 

[Ch4rlie]

When you say just 100% cyanoacrylate. Does that mean just that alone on the bottle label.
 
Just that I have hard time finding superglue with just cyanoacrylate on it. 
 
The closest I have found is Loctite Super Glue and lists on label : Ethyl - 2 - Cyanoacrylate.
 
Is that safe to use or a no no?

 

[ech0o]

I know in the marine world superglue is used by almost every coral keeper and from what I have seen and read, Loctite is known to be one of the safe brands.  A lot of people actually use it in gel form, and the gorilla super glue gel as well, as those brands have really good applicators, and the gel is a bit easier to work with.  Also the good ol' "Super Glue" brand is also a favorite as it is cheap.