Staghorn ferns are a stunning and unique plant that can be found naturally growing as an epiphyte. They are comprised of two types of fronds, antler and shield, and require proper care in order to thrive.
This guide offers comprehensive advice on how to properly care for staghorn ferns, including light and temperature requirements, watering and humidity needs, and fertilizing and remounting techniques.
In addition, troubleshooting tips and propagation methods are provided. With the help of this guide, anyone can successfully care for their staghorn ferns and help them to flourish.
Key Takeaways
- Staghorn ferns are epiphytes that grow on other plants or trees and can be mounted on a board and hung on a wall.
- They require bright, indirect or diffused light and should be protected from direct sun.
- Proper watering is important, which includes misting the fronds and soaking the roots. The watering schedule depends on factors like light, humidity, and heat.
- Staghorn ferns can be attached to a larger piece of wood with nails and should not be remounted as the root space on the original board is sufficient.
Light and Temperature
Staghorn ferns require bright, indirect or diffused light. The effect of light on staghorn fern growth is significant, as it can cause the fronds to dry up and brown if exposed to direct sun. On the other hand, artificial light is also not suitable for these plants.
Temperatures should remain between 50 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. Temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit can damage the fronds, while temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can also cause damage. It is important to find the optimal temperature range for staghorn ferns in order to ensure healthy growth.
Humidity and heat play a major role in the watering schedule. More humidity means less watering, and more light or heat means more watering.
Watering and Humidity
It is important to maintain adequate levels of humidity and properly water mounted Staghorn ferns to ensure their health and growth. Watering consists of misting the fronds and soaking the roots. The frequency of watering depends on factors such as light exposure, humidity, and heat.
Staghorn ferns absorb water through their fronds and appreciate humid spaces, so more humidity means less frequent watering is necessary. Conversely, more light or heat means more watering is necessary. Over-watering can cause browning or blackening of the antler fronds, while under-watering can cause browning at the tips or wilting of the fronds.
Misting the fronds is important, but soaking the roots is also necessary. Temperature should also be monitored, as it should stay between 50 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. Humidity and proper watering are key components to the successful care of Staghorn ferns.
Fertilizing and Remounting
Fertilizing with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can promote vigorous growth. Remounting a Staghorn fern is not recommended due to the sufficient root space on the original board. Here are key points to remember when caring for your Staghorn fern:
- Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer for optimal growth.
- Avoid nailing through the shield frond or root ball when remounting.
- Attach Staghorn ferns to larger pieces of wood with nails.
When fertilizing Staghorn ferns, use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that will promote vigorous growth. When remounting, exercise caution not to nail through the shield frond or root ball. Attaching Staghorn ferns to a larger piece of wood is possible using nails. This will ensure that the fern will have a more secure and stable mounting.
Troubleshooting and Propagation
Troubleshooting and propagating Staghorn ferns can be challenging but can be rewarding with proper care.
Reviving wilted staghorn ferns may require misting the fronds and soaking the roots, as well as avoiding over-watering or under-watering.
Separating staghorn ferns for propagation can be done by wrapping the rootball in burlap and nailing it to a board. Splitting a large fern into several smaller plants while preserving its history is also possible.
If a staghorn fern is mounted on a board, caution must be taken not to nail through the shield frond or root ball. If a staghorn fern has not grown new shield fronds after being mounted, misting the plant should not be stopped and it should be soaked in water for 5 minutes.
| Task | Description | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Dry moss | Around the root ball is dry and brown | Add a layer of moist, aged sphagnum moss to the root ball, mist the fronds, and soak the roots in water for about 5 minutes. |
| Wilting | Fronds are drooping and not growing shield fronds | Water the fern more frequently and mist the fronds to increase the humidity. Move the fern to a spot with more light and make sure it is not exposed to direct sun. Monitor the temperature at night in winter and feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. |
| Black edges | Shield fronds have black edges | Reduce the amount of water or move the fern to a spot with more light. Increase the humidity by misting the fronds more frequently and feeding with banana peels. If the fern is in a hot house, make sure the temperature does not exceed 100°F. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I attach a staghorn fern to a board?
Attaching a staghorn fern to a board requires the use of nails, screws, or mounting tools. The wall placement should allow for ample indirect or diffused light and protection from direct sun. Root rot should be avoided with good drainage and sufficient humidity. Consideration should be taken to not puncture the root ball or shield frond.
What temperature should a staghorn fern be kept in?
The optimal temperature for a staghorn fern is between 50 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Factors like container choice, light levels, and humidity must also be considered when determining the fern’s ideal temperature.
How often should I fertilize my staghorn fern?
Fertilizing a staghorn fern should be done every two weeks, depending on light exposure and watering frequency. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to promote vigorous growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant.
How can I split a large staghorn fern into smaller ones?
Splitting a large staghorn fern into smaller plants can be achieved by wrapping the rootball in burlap, nailing the burlap to a board, and cutting the divisions apart. Repotting each division in separate containers is recommended, taking care to avoid any damage to the root system. Dividing techniques and repotting tips should be carefully followed to ensure successful propagation.
How can I revive a staghorn fern that does not have any new shield fronds?
Reviving a staghorn fern without new shield fronds requires careful pruning and misting techniques. Misting should be done regularly and the fronds should be trimmed to encourage new growth. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer and ensure adequate humidity and indirect light.
Conclusion
Staghorn ferns are beautiful and unique plants that require specific care to thrive. They need bright, indirect or diffused light, with temperatures between 50 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Proper watering and humidity control are essential, and regular fertilizing with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer is recommended.
Remounting is not recommended, but can be done with nails or wire.
Troubleshooting and propagation can be done with misting and soaking, and attaching to tree trunks or coconut shells.
With the right care, anyone can enjoy the beauty of their staghorn ferns for years to come.
