How To Grow A Cinnamon Fern WITHOUT A Moss Pole

Cinnamon ferns are a delightful addition to any plant collection. Their elegant, arching leaves can transform a space, giving it a touch of natural beauty. But if you've been hesitant to bring one home because you think it needs a moss pole, think again! You can successfully grow a cinnamon fern without one.

This article will guide you through the process, from choosing the right pot to maintaining the perfect environment for your cinnamon fern to thrive. We'll cover everything you need to know to grow this lovely plant without the help of a moss pole.

Choosing the Right Pot

Before you even bring a cinnamon fern home, it's important to think about its new residence. Choosing the right pot is crucial because it affects the plant's health and growth. So, what should you be looking for? Let's break it down.

First, consider the size. Your cinnamon fern won't need a mansion, but it does need room to grow. A pot that's too small can restrict root development, while a pot that's too large can hold excess water, leading to root rot. A pot that's about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current root ball is usually a safe bet.

Next, think about drainage. This is where many plant parents get tripped up. The pot should have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Without these, water can accumulate at the bottom, which is not something your fern will appreciate.

Finally, consider the material. While any pot with good drainage will do, terracotta pots are often recommended. They allow moisture to evaporate through the sides, helping prevent overwatering. Plus, they add a charming, rustic look to your decor.

Soil Selection

Once you've selected the perfect pot, it's time to think about what goes inside it. The soil you choose can make a big difference in how well your cinnamon fern grows.

These ferns prefer a soil mix that's rich in organic matter and holds moisture well, yet drains efficiently. A standard potting mix can work, but you might want to add a few extras to mimic the forest floor conditions where these ferns thrive naturally.

• Peat moss: This helps retain moisture while providing an acidic environment that cinnamon ferns love.
• Perlite or coarse sand: These add drainage to the soil mix to prevent waterlogging.
• Compost: A bit of compost can introduce beneficial microorganisms and nutrients.

By creating a well-balanced soil mix, you'll give your cinnamon fern the best chance to thrive without a moss pole.

Lighting Needs

Let’s talk about lighting. Cinnamon ferns aren't sun worshippers; they hail from shady forest floors where direct sunlight is scarce. In your home, they’ll appreciate a similar setup.

Indirect light is your cinnamon fern’s best friend. A spot near a north or east-facing window is ideal. If the only available window gets too much direct sun, consider using sheer curtains to filter the light. This keeps your fern happy without risking sunburn.

If you’re like me and live in a place where natural light is a bit of a luxury, you might need to get creative. Artificial lights can work wonders! A fluorescent or LED grow light positioned about a foot above the plant can mimic the dappled sunlight of its natural habitat.

Remember, lighting needs can change with the seasons. Keep an eye on how your fern responds and adjust its location if necessary. With the right lighting, your cinnamon fern will flourish.

Watering Wisely

Watering is where many plant people stumble. But don't worry, it's not rocket science! Cinnamon ferns do like their soil to stay moist, but they don't want to swim in it.

Here's a handy rule of thumb: water your cinnamon fern when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Stick your finger in the soil; if it feels dry up to your first knuckle, it's time to water. If it's still damp, hold off for a day or two.

When you do water, be thorough. Water until you see it draining from the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root system gets a drink. Just be sure to empty the saucer underneath the pot afterward, so your fern doesn't sit in a puddle.

Humidity is another factor to consider. Cinnamon ferns love moisture, so if your home is dry, you might want to mist your plant occasionally or place a humidifier nearby. Grouping plants together can also increase the ambient humidity around them.

Temperature and Humidity

Speaking of humidity, let’s dive a bit deeper into the climate preferences of a cinnamon fern. These plants are native to warm, humid environments, so replicating those conditions in your home can help them thrive.

Temperature-wise, cinnamon ferns are pretty adaptable. They’re comfortable in typical indoor temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they don’t like sudden temperature fluctuations, so keep them away from drafty windows or doors, and try to avoid placing them near heating or cooling vents.

As for humidity, these ferns love it. Ideally, they prefer humidity levels of 50% or higher. If your home is on the drier side, especially during winter months, there are a few tricks you can try:

• Humidifiers: These are a great way to consistently boost the humidity in a room.
• Grouping plants together: As mentioned earlier, plants release moisture, so clustering them can raise local humidity.
• Water trays: Place a tray filled with water and pebbles under your plant. As the water evaporates, it will increase humidity around your fern.

By maintaining a warm and humid environment, you'll help your cinnamon fern feel right at home.

Fertilizing Your Fern

Feeding your cinnamon fern can give it the extra boost it needs to grow lush and strong. However, it's important not to overdo it, as too much fertilizer can harm your plant.

During the growing season, which typically spans from spring to early fall, you can feed your fern with a balanced liquid fertilizer. A diluted solution every 4-6 weeks should do the trick. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and under-fertilize rather than over-fertilize.

In the cooler months, when growth slows down, you can give the fertilizer a break. Your fern won’t need as many nutrients during this time, and it’s a great opportunity to let the plant rest.

Remember, healthy soil and proper care are the best ways to ensure your cinnamon fern thrives. Fertilizer is just the icing on the cake!

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning might sound intimidating, but for cinnamon ferns, it’s a straightforward task. Regular maintenance not only keeps your plant looking tidy but also promotes healthy growth.

Start by removing any dead or damaged leaves. This can be done at any time of year. Simply snip them off at the base using clean, sharp scissors or pruners. This prevents any potential disease from spreading.

During the growing season, you might notice new shoots appearing. These are called fiddleheads, and they’ll unfurl into new leaves. It’s a good idea to remove any old, brown leaves to make room for these fresh ones.

Aside from pruning, keep an eye out for dust buildup on the leaves. A gentle wipe with a damp cloth can keep your fern looking fresh and allow it to photosynthesize more effectively.

Dealing with Pests

Even with the best care, pests can sometimes make an appearance. The most common culprits for cinnamon ferns are scale, mealybugs, and spider mites. But don't worry, you can tackle these nuisances with a few simple strategies.

For minor infestations, a gentle wipe with a soapy water solution can work wonders. Mix a few drops of dish soap with water and wipe the leaves, making sure to get the undersides where pests love to hide.

If the problem persists, consider using an insecticidal soap or neem oil. These are both effective and safe for most houseplants. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the product label.

It's also helpful to regularly inspect your fern, especially if it's in close proximity to other plants. Catching pests early can make dealing with them much easier.

Decorating with Cinnamon Ferns

Finally, let’s talk about the fun part: decorating! Cinnamon ferns can be a fantastic addition to your home decor, bringing a touch of greenery and life to any room.

Think about placement. Cinnamon ferns look great as floor plants in larger pots or on plant stands to give them some height. They can also be lovely in hanging baskets, where their arching leaves can cascade beautifully.

If you have a bathroom with a window, consider placing your fern there. The natural humidity from showers can create a perfect environment for it. Just make sure there's enough light.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match with other plants. Cinnamon ferns pair well with other shade-loving plants like pothos or peace lilies, creating a lush, green corner in your home.

With a little creativity and care, your cinnamon fern can become a stunning focal point in your home without the need for a moss pole.

Final Thoughts

Growing a cinnamon fern without a moss pole is entirely achievable with the right care and attention. From choosing the right pot to ensuring ideal lighting and humidity, these steps will help your fern thrive.

At Cafe Planta, we're here to support you on your plant journey. Whether you're looking for new plants to add to your collection or need advice on plant care, we've got you covered. Feel free to email us or DM us on Instagram. We believe in the power of plants to connect us with nature and each other, and we're excited to help you create your own thriving indoor garden.