Java Fern Runners

[kuzyaburst]

I have a couple Java Ferns and I see they are developing runners on the leaves. The leaves have another plant with roots growing on them, do I cut the whole leaf off and plant it? should I detach the runner? Or should I just leave it. I have never replanted Java Ferns, and I have my Java Fern mounted on an ornament because I heard it also just like anubias has a Rizome (however you spell that word). BUT I have seen many people get away with their Java Fern planted in the substrate and still have great looking leaves and a good plant in general. While we're at it, another plant I have a question about... The Madagascar Lace, is it really as hard as people say it is to take care of? Also does it need pumped CO2, and how big can it get, also how far down the stem does the actual leaf start to form... don't really know how to word this. Thanks!

 

[Byron]

I have a couple Java Ferns and I see they are developing runners on the leaves. The leaves have another plant with roots growing on them, do I cut the whole leaf off and plant it? should I detach the runner? Or should I just leave it. I have never replanted Java Ferns, and I have my Java Fern mounted on an ornament because I heard it also just like anubias has a Rizome (however you spell that word). BUT I have seen many people get away with their Java Fern planted in the substrate and still have great looking leaves and a good plant in general.
 

 
If the rhizome is buried in the substrate, it may rot; not always, but usually is probably the best way to put it.  The rhizome is not a true root, but more a stem from which leaves and the true hair-like roots grow.  The latter can grow into the substrate, it's just the rhizome that shouldn't.
 
Re the adventitious plant developing on the leaf: you can leave it, or remove it and plant it elsewhere.  If you remove it, just take hold of the plant as close to the leaf as you can and gently pull it away.  I tend to leave this until the leaves of the adventitious plant are a decent size, say 2-3 inches, but I'm not suggesting this is necessary.  Attach it to wood or rock with black cotton thread as it will take hold better.  If you leave it on the parent leaf, it may continue to grow or it may break off on its own.  Sometimes the adventitious plants can be decorative on the parent, its up to you.
 
As for the Madagascar Lace Plant, yes, this is not one of the easy plants.  I've never tried this plant, so I will leave the technical questions to someone who has.
 
Byron.