The first time I saw a Staghorn fern I was amazed! It was a unique looking plant and to grow on a piece of bark? The fern fronds were fuzzy and resembled stag antlers. In English, its botanical name Platycerium bifurcatum means, "broad-horn twice-forked," and provides an accurate description of the plant's physical appearance.Staghorn ferns are spectacular plants, easy to own and enjoy; they require almost no work, no soil and not much watering.All you have to do is provide a warm bright airy location and your Staghorn fern will perform, growing larger rapidly with almost no care.These ferns are epiphytic, which means they grow mounted on plaques or other substrates.1 out of 5 visitors at the nursery asks me to sell my prized stag horns iv got 3 beautiful ones hanging right in front of my living room windows.
platycerium varieties are intensely sought-after collector's plants and if any of you ever have a chance to get your hands on one of these rare wonders take utmost care of them ...here are some basic care tips
Growing Conditions:
Light: Bright light, but not direct sunlight. They can handle more sunlight given enough water, warmth and humidity.
Watering:Most staghorn’s fail due to overwatering. To ensure that fern has enough water check the sphagnum moss in the center of the plant. If it is still moist and spongy, leave it for a day or two. If it is drying out then it is time to water again.
Fertilizers:Staghorn ferns do not usually require fertilizer. They will usually get the nutrients they needs from the bark.
Propagation:. Large plats can be easily divided into smaller plants, and even small "chunks" that include a leaf and a bit of root ball can be potted individually. Make sure new divisions are kept warm and moist until they are growing independently.
Growers tips: The chief concern with these plants indoors is humidity: they should be misted frequently and given ample ambient humidity during the warm growing season. They are more cold tolerant than many people expect, and larger plants can withstand fairly long periods without water. Don't remove brown, flat leaves at the base of the plant—these are essential. Overall, these are not especially difficult to grow.
Did you know:A popular nutritional supplement in cold regions where staghorn ferns grow outdoors year round is the placement of a banana peel in the fern foliage base to provide potassium.
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