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Is a staghorn fern a true fern?
As a true fern, they neither produce fruit or flowers. Staghorn Ferns are also called Elkhorn Ferns (particularly those with narrow fronds) or Moosehead Ferns due to the forked or antler like appearance of the fronds. Like all ferns, they naturally reproduce by spores.
What kind of plant is a staghorn?
Staghorn Ferns are Epiphytes Though you can find young staghorn ferns sold in pots, mature plants need to be mounted to a board or hung in a hanging basket. Why? Because, like air plants, staghorn ferns are epiphytic plants, which means that in they grow on other plants or trees in their natural growing environments.
What is special about staghorn fern?
Uniquely, the Staghorn Fern doesn't even require soil to grow at all -- in fact, it requires stable support to reach its mature stage, and absorbs most of its nutrients from the air rather than its soil.
Why is it called staghorn fern?
The plant's common name comes from the shape of those fertile fronds, which branch out to look like antlers. Staghorn ferns are epiphytes, meaning that they grow on the branches of other plants.
Where do you put a staghorn fern?
Outdoor plants should be located in partial shade or low light conditions for the best growth, while indoor plants need bright indirect light. Staghorn ferns are usually grown mounted on a piece of wood or in a basket. They will need a little mound of peat, compost, or another organic matter piled up under the plant.
Where do you hang a staghorn fern?
How to Hang a Staghorn Fern with Chains. Staghorn fern plants grow best in part shade to shady locations. Since they get most of their water and nutrients from the air or fallen plant matter, they are often hung on limbs or in the crotches of trees much like they grow in their native environments.
Should I wipe my staghorn fern?
In nature this gives the plant more time to absorb moisture and make the most of the limited rainfall. The white waxy coating fuzz or fluff on the fronds is actually a sign of a healthy plant. Don't wipe it off.
How big does a staghorn fern get?
A mature P. bifurcatum can be as big as 3 feet across. The plant grows from short rhizomes that produce two types of fronds. The sterile (non-reproductive) basal fronds are the rounded to heart-shaped, overlapping, clasping, shield-like structures at the base of the fern (sometimes called the back plates).
Can you take a cutting from a staghorn fern?
A much less intensive method for propagating staghorn ferns is staghorn fern division. This can be done by cutting a full plant in half with a serrated knife – as long as there are plenty of fronds and roots on both halves they should be fine.
Can a staghorn fern live indoors?
They do great outdoors in temperate climates but also make fine houseplants with a little effort. This is all about how to grow a Staghorn Fern indoors, even though are homes are nothing like the rainforest. Staghorn Ferns can be grown in a pot, in a wire basket as well as on a wire frame.
Do staghorn ferns need soil?
In its natural habitat, the staghorn fern grows in rainforests in an epiphytic manner, meaning it clings to trees in a non-parasitic way. It doesn't need soil around its roots, which only really serve an anchoring purpose: water and nutrients are absorbed mainly through the fronds instead.
Can staghorn ferns live outside?
Staghorn ferns are hardy in zones 9 to 12. That being said, when growing staghorn ferns outdoors it is important to know that they may need to be protected if temperatures dip below 55 degrees F. (13 C.).
Can a staghorn fern live indoors?
They do great outdoors in temperate climates but also make fine houseplants with a little effort. This is all about how to grow a Staghorn Fern indoors, even though are homes are nothing like the rainforest. Staghorn Ferns can be grown in a pot, in a wire basket as well as on a wire frame.
How big do staghorn ferns get?
3 feet acrossA mature P. bifurcatum can be as big as 3 feet across. The plant grows from short rhizomes that produce two types of fronds. The sterile (non-reproductive) basal fronds are the rounded to heart-shaped, overlapping, clasping, shield-like structures at the base of the fern (sometimes called the back plates).
Can staghorn ferns grow outside?
Staghorn ferns are hardy in zones 9 to 12. That being said, when growing staghorn ferns outdoors it is important to know that they may need to be protected if temperatures dip below 55 degrees F.
Should I wipe my staghorn fern?
In nature this gives the plant more time to absorb moisture and make the most of the limited rainfall. The white waxy coating fuzz or fluff on the fronds is actually a sign of a healthy plant. Don't wipe it off.
What kinds of staghorn ferns are there?
Staghorn ferns are known by several other names, including elkhorn ferns, Australian elk’s horn ferns, and antelope ears. There are several Platycerium species available for sale, and also some crosses and cultivars to add even more diversity. This video from Herb Halling of the Los Angeles County Arboretum gives a comprehensive overview of all the options available:
Do staghorns like shade?
A final consideration is the position of the mount relative to light. Although staghorns prefer partial shade, the bifurcated fronds will grow towards the sun. This is how they are adapted to their natural climate, up in the canopy of the rainforest and searching for sunlight. Accordingly, it is best to position the ferns facing towards the light source (though not in direct sun). If the fern is positioned facing to the side or away from the light, the fronds may grow to be lopsided and asymmetrical.
Can a mounted fern be mounted in the bathroom?
This is the ideal scenario for your ferns too, and can be reproduced by allowing for cycles of dry and wet conditions. The fern should be mounted away from drafts to help protect against dehydration, and occasional misting is recommended to maintain humidity. Some enthusiasts will mount their Staghorn in the bathroom, either permanently if light levels are sufficient, or for occasional humidifying visits to rejuvenate the plant.
Can staghorn ferns be moved outside?
Because of this tropical origin, staghorn ferns grown for domestic appreciation are best suited to hotter climates or indoor locations where there is little danger of frost or cold damage. If mounted or hanging, the plant can be moved outside in summer months.
Do staghorns need fertilizer?
Staghorns need additional minimal soil or fertilizer once established. If you are concerned that the fern is failing to thrive, a low dose of balanced fertilizer can be used occasionally to help it along. In time, the fern can also grow to overwhelm the original mount, at which point it can be transferred to a larger mount with a fresh dose of leaf mold based compost – a sort of “repotting” onto a larger fake tree!
Do ferns spread through the soil?
Ferns have a reputation as invasive plants that spread aggressively through the yard, but this reputation is not really deserved. In fact, only a few fern species spread through the soil - most are...
Does a staghorn tree hurt?
This association does not hurt the tree. The staghorn does not steal nutrients or damage the tree like parasitic plants such as mistletoe, instead sustaining itself from whatever dead leaves and rotting bark can be trapped as it falls from above, or is washed down in rainwater.
How to protect staghorn fern from frost?
Keep in mind, staghorn fern will need protection from any freezing temperatures. Mounting your staghorn somewhere protected, like under a tree or on a porch, will help protect it from frosts. However, gardeners in North and Central Florida should bring their ferns inside when extremely cold temperatures are expected, if possible.
How many species of staghorn fern are there?
Staghorn fern is a member of the Polypodiaceae family; there are presently eighteen known species, as well as many varieties and hybrids of this plant.
What is a small plant that grows in a basket called?
When grown in a basket, small plants called pups will grow out of the back and sides of the basket to eventually cover the whole surface. Large-growing staghorns can be remounted or divided if needed. You'll know it's time to remount your fern when the basal fronds have grown to the sides of your mount surface.
Is staghorn fern low maintenance?
Staghorn fern is an interesting and low-maintenance addition to any home. And you can share the growing fun through propagation—remove "pups" that emerge from the main plant and pass on to friends and family. For more information about staghorn fern and other landscape plants, contact your local Extension office.
Is staghorn fern easy to grow?
While some species of staghorn fern can be a bit difficult to care for, these two species are low-maintenance and commonly grown. Other easy-to-grow species of staghorn fern are P. alcicorne and P. hillii.
Can staghorn ferns survive in cold weather?
Staghorn fern flourishes in warm, humid climates and should be protected from cold conditons. It's generally considered a tender plant; most species can't tolerate temperatures below 55°F. However, Platycerium bifurcatum and Platycerium veitchii can withstand temperatures as low as 30°F. While some species of staghorn fern can be a bit difficult to care for, these two species are low-maintenance and commonly grown. Other easy-to-grow species of staghorn fern are P. alcicorne and P. hillii.
Can staghorn ferns survive freezing temperatures?
Keep in mind, staghorn fern will need protection from any freezing temperatures. Mounting your staghorn somewhere protected, like under a tree or on a porch, will help protect it from frosts. However, gardeners in North and Central Florida should bring their ferns inside when extremely cold temperatures are expected, if possible. ...
What is a staghorn fern?
Although there are multiple staghorn fern species out there, the one that we generally come across in plant stores and garden centers is Platycerium bifurcatum. This species is naturally found in Australia as well as New Guinea and the Indonesian island of Java.
What are the two types of fronds on a Platycerium bifurcatum?
Platycerium bifurcatum has two types of fronds: shield fronds and bifurcated (forked) fronds. The former are located at the base of the plant and grow flatly, often appearing dried out or dead. The bifurcated fronds are what the plant lent its common name from, as their forked appearance is reminiscent of deer antlers.
How to keep staghorn ferns moist?
If your home has very dry air it might not be happy in there. Try placing the plant in one of the more humid areas of the house, like the bathroom, or run a humidifier to keep the moisture levels up. Temperature.
How cold should a staghorn fern be?
The staghorn fern is totally happy indoors at room temperature and although it can take a little bit of cold it’s probably best not to let things drop below 50 °F/10 °C. Keep that in mind if you want to grow it outdoors.
How to wrap a fern root ball?
Tip: Don’t like the burlap look? You can also gently wrap the root ball in moss. Hammer two nails into the board on either side of where the fern is going to be. Place the moss-covered root ball in between these nails and then use fishing line to secure it.
How to make ferns escape from a nail?
Loop the line around a nail, cross it over the root ball, loop it over the other nail and go back and forth until the fern can’t escape.
Can staghorn ferns take water?
Water. As mentioned earlier, the staghorn fern doesn’t take up water through its roots , so it’s not really useful to water the traditional way. In fact, you’ll probably soon end up with a rotting plant if you go that route.
How to start a staghorn fern from a pup?
Ferns don’t produce seeds like most plants, so the best way to start a new staghorn fern is from its pups. Use a sharp, sterile knife to cut the pup from the parent plant. Wrap the end of the cut in damp sphagnum moss and tie it onto a piece of wood or bark loosely. Provide the same care of staghorn ferns that you would for an adult fern.
How many different species of staghorn ferns are there?
There are 17 different species of staghorn fern ( Platycerium alcicorne) – which in addition to common staghorn fern, go by a number of other common names that include elkhorn fern and antelope ears. Each one has antler-like foliage as well as a flat, basal leaf. The flat leaves are infertile and turn brown and papery with age. They overlap onto a mounting surface and provide stability for the fern. The foliar fronds may droop or be erect, depending upon the variety of fern.
What is a staghorn fern?
Image by cynoclub. Staghorn ferns ( Platycerium spp.) have an out-of-this-world appearance. The plants have two types of leaves, one of which resembles the horns of a large herbivore. The plants grow outdoors in warm-season locations and indoors elsewhere.
How long do staghorn ferns live?
Care of staghorn ferns relies on careful humidity, light, and temperature control. The ferns can live many years with good care and will get several hundred pounds in their natural habitat. Homegrown ferns are generally much smaller but they can be in the family for decades.
Do ferns have flat leaves?
The flat leaves are infertile and turn brown and papery with age. They overlap onto a mounting surface and provide stability for the fern. The foliar fronds may droop or be erect, depending upon the variety of fern. Staghorn ferns produce spores as reproductive organs, which are borne on the edges of the lobed, antler-type fronds.
Can staghorn ferns grow indoors?
Growing staghorn ferns is easy. If they get low to medium light and moderate moisture, they will thrive. In fact, whether grown indoors or outside, provide moderate moisture and a humus-rich medium when growing staghorn ferns. Outdoor plants should be located in partial shade or low light conditions for the best growth, ...
Do staghorn ferns have flowers?
Staghorn ferns produce spores as reproductive organs, which are borne on the edges of the lobed, antler-type fronds. They do not get flowers and they are generally not rooted in soil.
How to get rid of spores on ferns?
Scrape spores off the bottom of a fern leaf. Hold a leaf from a Staghorn fern over a white piece of paper, bottom side up. Use a butter knife to gently scrape off the little brown dots all over the bottom of the leaf. Once you have a pile about the size of a quarter, you can stop.
What is a staghorn fern?
This article has been viewed 154,595 times. Staghorn ferns are large antler-shaped ferns that hang on the sides of trees, and they make stunning displays when mounted on the wall inside your home. Propagating fern spores is time-consuming, but it is possible to do it yourself.
How to spread fern spores evenly?
Gently shake the paper and move it around over the container to spread the spores evenly across the mixture. You may need to scrape some of the spores off the paper with the butter knife. To avoid contaminating the fern spores when you're planting them, make sure your hands and clothes are clean.
How to avoid contaminating ferns?
To avoid contaminating the fern spores when you're planting them, make sure your hands and clothes are clean. Only use tools and containers that have been sterilized with 5-10 percent bleach.
How to get spores to grow in your house?
Find a place in your home where the spores will receive a little light all day, but no direct sunlight. They need to stay moderately cool while they propagate. Off to the side near a window will work, just be sure the light never lands directly on the container. ...
How to get rid of a fungus in a container?
Only use tools and containers that have been sterilized with 5-10 percent bleach. Place the container in a cool, dimly lit spot. Find a place in your home where the spores will receive a little light all day, but no direct sunlight. They need to stay moderately cool while they propagate.
How to make a moss propagator?
3. Create a propagator with a plastic box, perlite, and peat moss. Any plastic container with a tight-fitting lid will do, just be sure it will fit in your microwave. Then add a 1- to 2-inch (2.5 to 5 cm) layer of fine perlite, followed by a 2- to 3-inch (5 to 7.5 cm) layer of peat moss.
How to tie a fern in place?
This can be done quite simply by placing the fern where you want it to be and using a soft wire, or string, to tie it in place.
What is a staghorn?
Essentially, a Staghorn is a type of air plant. It takes all its nutrients and water from the atmosphere. The roots only attach the plant to the tree.
What are the leaves on a staghorn?
The Staghorn has two types of leaves: the typical ‘antlers’, which are long and stick out from the center of the plant; and the ‘shield’, which are hard and round and grow around the base of the plant, protecting the roots.
What do I need to mount a fern?
For this method of mounting the fern, you will need something that can hold the plant, but which has a flat bottom. I recommend using a piece of aluminum.
What to use to mount a staghorn?
You can also use something less natural, such as a wire basket. However, whatever you choose as the mount, it must allow the Staghorn’s roots to take hold and must offer sufficient support to hold the plant as it grows.
Do staghorn ferns survive frost?
Staghorn ferns grow naturally in jungles, or hot areas, which are preferably humid. This means that they are sensitive to cold and certainly won’t survive in frost .
Can a staghorn grow in the ground?
Most simply, a Staghorn doesn’t grow in the ground and needs support to hold onto. However, mounting this plant is not just for support.
Why do People Hang Staghorn Ferns?
When young, these ferns can do well in pots. However, you have to keep in mind that when bringing a plant indoors, you must simulate its native environment.
How do Staghorn Ferns Grow?
It’s imperative that you understand that this fern type is quite different from most other plants.
How to Save a Dying Staghorn Fern?
As a new staghorn fern gardener, you may mistake natural plant changes as signs of death. When antler fronds come out at first, they are green.
Why is Your Staghorn Fern Collapsing?
Like we earlier covered, these plants do not rely on their roots for much other than supporting the plant .
How Can You Deal With Staghorn Fern Root Rot?
First, you need to get rid of the affected leaves using clean equipment to avoid the rot from spreading to other parts of the plant.
How Should you Water Your Fern?
The staghorn fern requires both misting and watering for it to do well.
Why is Your Staghorn Fern Turning Brown?
Browning on the antler fronds followed by complete drying of the leaves is common with ferns as it’s a natural part of their growth.
