How To Plant Anubias Nana In Cholla – A Step-By-Step Guide For A
Ever scroll through photos of stunning aquascapes and see those lush, green plants growing directly on unique, holey pieces of wood? It’s a captivating look that feels incredibly natural, like a slice of a real riverbed. You might think it’s a complicated technique reserved for the pros, but I’m here to let you in on a little secret: it’s one of the easiest and most rewarding projects for any aquarist.
I promise that by the end of this guide, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to achieve this beautiful aesthetic yourself. We’re going to cover everything you need to know about how to plant anubias nana in cholla, from why this pairing is so perfect to a detailed, step-by-step process that guarantees success.
Get ready to create a beautiful, low-maintenance centerpiece for your tank that your fish and shrimp will absolutely love!
Why Anubias Nana and Cholla Wood are a Perfect Match
Before we grab our supplies, let’s talk about why this combination is a fan favorite in the aquarium hobby. It’s not just about looks; it’s about creating a tiny, self-sustaining ecosystem. Understanding the benefits of how to plant anubias nana in cholla will make you appreciate the final result even more.
The Undemanding Beauty of Anubias Nana
If there were an award for the most beginner-friendly aquarium plant, Anubias nana would be a top contender. It’s a true workhorse!
This plant is famous for its hardiness. It thrives in a wide range of water conditions and doesn’t demand intense lighting or CO2 injection. Its thick, dark green leaves are tough, which means even plant-nipping fish like some cichlids or goldfish often leave it alone.
The most important thing to know about Anubias is its rhizome. This is the thick, horizontal stem from which the leaves and roots grow. This rhizome must not be buried in the substrate, or it will rot. This is exactly why attaching it to something like wood or rock is the perfect planting method!
The Unique Charm of Cholla Wood
Cholla (pronounced “choy-a”) wood is the dried skeleton of the cholla cactus. Its hollow, porous structure makes it one of the most interesting-looking hardscape materials you can add to your tank.
But it’s more than just a pretty face. Cholla wood is a fantastic addition for a healthy aquarium:
- Biofilm Hotspot: The wood’s surface area is a magnet for biofilm, a slimy layer of beneficial bacteria and microorganisms. This is a five-star meal for shrimp and small grazing fish!
- Natural Shelter: The holes and tunnels provide perfect hiding spots for baby shrimp, fry, and shy nano fish, making them feel safe and secure.
- Tannin Release: Like other woods, cholla releases tannins into the water. These can lower the pH slightly and give the water a natural, tea-colored tint, mimicking the blackwater habitats of many popular fish like bettas and tetras.
A Symbiotic Aquascaping Relationship
When you put them together, it’s a match made in aquarium heaven. The holes in the cholla wood provide perfect, natural anchor points for the Anubias roots. You can tuck the roots right into the crevices, which helps the plant establish itself quickly and securely. This method creates a beautiful, living decoration that is both functional and stunning.
Gathering Your Supplies: What You’ll Need
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty! The good news is you don’t need a lot of complicated equipment. This is a simple project. Here’s your checklist:
- A Healthy Anubias Nana Plant: Look for a plant with vibrant green leaves and a firm, healthy-looking rhizome. Avoid any with yellowing leaves or a mushy rhizome.
- A Piece of Cholla Wood: Choose a size and shape that fits your vision for your tank. You can find these at most local fish stores or online.
- Aquarium-Safe Super Glue: This is the secret weapon! Look for 100% Cyanoacrylate gel super glue. Brands like Gorilla Glue Gel Super Glue or Loctite Super Glue Gel Control are popular choices. The gel formula is much easier to control than the runny liquid version.
- Fishing Line or 100% Cotton Thread (Optional): If you prefer not to use glue, this is the traditional method. Cotton thread is great because it will eventually dissolve once the plant’s roots have attached themselves.
- Scissors: For trimming thread or opening packaging.
- A Shallow Tray or Bowl: This gives you a dedicated workspace and helps keep things tidy.
The Step-by-Step Guide: How to Plant Anubias Nana in Cholla Wood
Ready to create your masterpiece? This complete how to plant anubias nana in cholla guide will walk you through every step. Don’t worry, it’s incredibly straightforward. Just follow these best practices, and you’ll do great.
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Step 1: Prepare Your Materials
First things first, preparation is key. Take your cholla wood and give it a good rinse under tap water to remove any dust or debris. Many aquarists like to boil cholla wood for 10-15 minutes. This helps it become waterlogged so it sinks immediately and also releases some of the initial heavy tannins.
Next, prepare your Anubias. If it came in a plastic pot with rock wool, gently remove the pot and carefully pick away as much of the wool from the roots as you can. Give the plant a gentle rinse in some declorinated water.
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Step 2: Plan Your Composition
Before you attach anything, take a moment to be an artist. Place the Anubias on the cholla wood in different positions. See what looks best to you. Does it look more natural nestled in a curve? Or maybe perched on top? The holes in the cholla are your guide—try to find a spot where the roots can naturally tuck into the wood.
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Step 3: Choose Your Attachment Method
You have two excellent options here. Both work well, so it’s down to personal preference.
The Super Glue Method (The Quick & Easy Way)
This is my personal favorite for its speed and clean look. Take your plant and wood out of the water and pat the attachment points dry with a paper towel. The glue works best on a dry surface.
Apply a small dab of the cyanoacrylate gel glue onto the cholla wood where a few of the thicker roots will make contact. You can also apply it directly to a couple of the roots themselves. Crucially, do not put any glue on the green rhizome.
Gently press the Anubias onto the wood and hold it firmly in place for about 30-60 seconds. The gel will set quickly. That’s it!
The Tying Method (The Traditional Approach)
If you’re wary of using glue, no problem. Grab your fishing line or cotton thread. Position the Anubias on the wood and carefully wrap the thread around the wood and over the rhizome and roots a few times.
You want it to be snug enough to hold the plant firmly, but not so tight that it cuts into the rhizome. Tie a secure knot and snip off the excess. Over a few months, the Anubias roots will grow and grip the wood, and if you used cotton, the thread will simply dissolve away.
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Step 4: Curing and Placement
If you used super glue, it’s a good idea to let it cure for a few minutes before placing it in the tank. You can even give it a light spritz with a spray bottle of water, as moisture helps cyanoacrylate cure instantly. Once it’s set, it is 100% inert and aquarium safe.
Now for the best part! Gently place your new Anubias-on-cholla creation into your aquarium. Find the perfect spot, sit back, and admire your handiwork.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
You’ve successfully learned how to plant anubias nana in cholla, but what comes next? Fortunately, this part is just as easy. This simple how to plant anubias nana in cholla care guide will keep your plant happy for years.
Light and CO2
Anubias are low-light plants. They do best in shaded areas or under standard, low-to-medium intensity aquarium lights. Too much direct, intense light can cause unsightly green spot algae to grow on its slow-growing leaves. No CO2 injection is necessary for this plant to thrive.
Fertilization
Since the Anubias isn’t planted in substrate, it gets its nutrients directly from the water column. A good quality, comprehensive liquid fertilizer dosed once or twice a week will provide everything it needs to stay lush and green.
Pruning and Propagation
Occasionally, an older leaf may turn yellow and die off. Simply snip it off at the base where it meets the rhizome. If your plant gets big and you want to propagate it, you can! Just take it out of the tank and, using a sharp, clean blade, cut the rhizome. Make sure each piece has at least 3-4 healthy leaves, and then you can attach your new, smaller plant to another piece of wood or rock.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with a plant this easy, you might run into a hiccup. Don’t worry! Here are some solutions to the most common problems with how to plant anubias nana in cholla.
Problem: My Anubias Leaves are Turning Yellow!
This is often a sign of a nutrient deficiency. If you aren’t already, start dosing a comprehensive liquid fertilizer. If new leaves look healthy but old ones are yellowing, it’s likely a lack of mobile nutrients like nitrogen.
Problem: Algae is Growing on the Leaves!
This is almost always caused by too much light. Anubias leaves grow slowly, making them a prime target for algae. Try reducing your lighting period by an hour or two, or move the plant to a more shaded area of the tank. Adding algae-eaters like Nerite snails or Amano shrimp can also help keep the leaves spotless.
Problem: The Cholla Wood is Floating!
If you skipped the boiling or pre-soaking step, your wood might be buoyant. You can either take it out and soak it in a bucket for a few days until it’s waterlogged, or you can place a small, discreet rock on top of it in the tank to hold it down until it sinks on its own.
Sustainable Aquascaping: An Eco-Friendly Choice
Choosing this combination is a fantastic move towards more sustainable how to plant anubias nana in cholla practices. Cholla wood is a completely natural, biodegradable material. It enriches the environment for your tank inhabitants rather than just sitting there.
Furthermore, by propagating your Anubias, you are creating new plants for free, reducing the need to purchase more. This pairing fosters a miniature ecosystem, providing food and shelter and contributing to a balanced, healthy, and eco-friendly how to plant anubias nana in cholla setup.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Plant Anubias Nana in Cholla
Can I bury the cholla wood with the Anubias in the substrate?
Yes, you can partially bury the cholla wood to anchor it, which can create a very natural look. However, you must ensure that the Anubias rhizome remains completely above the substrate. Never, ever bury the rhizome!
What kind of super glue is safe for aquariums?
The key is to use a glue that is 100% Cyanoacrylate. The gel versions are highly recommended for better control. Popular, widely-used brands include Gorilla Glue Super Glue Gel and Loctite Super Glue Gel Control. Avoid any “super glue” with special additives or impact resistance.
How long does it take for the Anubias roots to attach to the cholla wood?
Anubias is a slow grower. You can expect it to take several weeks to a few months for the roots to firmly grip the wood. Be patient! As long as the plant is held securely by the glue or thread, it will eventually anchor itself.
My Anubias came in a plastic pot with rock wool. How do I prepare it?
This is very common. Gently slide the plant and wool out of the pot. Then, painstakingly and gently, use your fingers or a pair of tweezers to pick away all the fibrous rock wool from the delicate roots. It can be tedious, but it’s important to remove it all before rinsing the plant and attaching it.
Conclusion: Go Forth and Create!
See? That wasn’t so hard! You now have all the knowledge and how to plant anubias nana in cholla tips you need to create a stunning, natural, and thriving feature for your aquarium. It’s a simple project with a massive visual payoff.
Remember the golden rule: don’t bury the rhizome. Whether you choose the glue method for its speed or the tying method for a more traditional approach, the result will be a beautiful, low-maintenance plant that enhances your aquascape and provides a wonderful environment for your fish and shrimp.
So go ahead, give it a try. You’ll be amazed at how this simple addition can transform the look and feel of your entire underwater world. Happy scaping!
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