How to Grow and Care for Staghorn Ferns

Staghorn ferns are one of those plants that can instantly add a touch of the exotic to any space. With their unique antler-like leaves, they have a way of becoming a conversation starter in your home. But how do you go about growing and caring for these fascinating plants? If you're curious about bringing a staghorn fern into your life, you're in the right place.

This article will take you through everything you need to know about these intriguing plants. From selecting the right environment to handling pests and incorporating them into your home decor, we'll cover it all. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's get into the world of growing and caring for staghorn ferns.

Understanding Staghorn Ferns

Staghorn ferns belong to the genus Platycerium, which includes around 18 different species. Originating from the tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia, these ferns are epiphytic. This means they naturally grow on other plants or trees, rather than in soil. They absorb nutrients and moisture from the air, rain, and debris around them. If you've ever seen a staghorn fern clinging to a tree trunk, you know just how striking they can be.

Their leaves, or fronds, come in two distinct types: sterile and fertile. The sterile fronds are flat and round, often covering the root ball to help anchor the plant to its host. Fertile fronds shoot out and resemble deer antlers, which is where they get their name. These fronds house the spores necessary for reproduction.

Knowing a bit about their natural habitat gives us clues on how to care for them at home. They love bright, indirect light and a warm, humid environment. But don't worry—you don't have to live in a rainforest to keep a staghorn fern happy. With a few adjustments, these unique plants can thrive in your home.

Choosing the Right Location

Finding the perfect spot for your staghorn fern is essential for its health and vitality. While they might seem demanding at first, these ferns are quite adaptable once you understand their needs. The key factors to consider are light, temperature, and humidity.

Light: Staghorn ferns flourish in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their delicate fronds, so it's best to avoid placing them in a spot where the sun beams directly on them. A north or east-facing window is often ideal. If your home lacks natural light, don't fret—artificial grow lights can be an excellent substitute.

Temperature: These tropical plants prefer temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. While they can tolerate short periods of cooler temperatures, prolonged exposure to cold can harm them. In winter, make sure they're not in a drafty spot or too close to a cold window.

Humidity: High humidity levels mimic their natural environment. If your home is dry, especially in winter, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant to boost moisture in the air. Regular misting can also help, but be careful not to overdo it, as too much moisture can lead to rot.

Mounting or Potting: What’s Best?

Staghorn ferns can be grown in pots or mounted on boards, and each method has its own charm. The choice often comes down to personal preference and the space you have available.

Mounting: Mounting a staghorn fern on a wooden board or plaque is a popular choice. It allows the plant to grow in a more natural position, similar to how it would be in the wild. To mount a staghorn fern, you'll need:

• A piece of wood or cork board
• Sphagnum moss
• Fishing line or wire
• Staple gun or small nails

Soak the sphagnum moss in water, then form it into a mound on the board. Place the fern on top, ensuring the sterile fronds face outwards. Secure it with fishing line or wire, looping it around the board and over the roots. This method creates a stunning wall display, perfect for any room.

Potting: If you prefer to keep your fern in a pot, choose one with excellent drainage. Use a loose, well-draining potting mix, such as orchid bark or a combination of peat moss and perlite. Make sure the pot is sized appropriately—too large, and the soil may retain too much moisture, which can lead to root rot.

Watering Your Staghorn Fern

Watering staghorn ferns can be a bit of an art, but once you get the hang of it, it's quite straightforward. The key is to find a balance that keeps them moist but not waterlogged.

Frequency: Staghorn ferns typically need watering about once a week, but this can vary based on your home's conditions. During the growing season (spring and summer), they might need more frequent watering. In the cooler months, you can scale back a bit.

Method: For mounted ferns, soaking is often the best method. Submerge the entire board in a sink or bucket of water for about 15 minutes, allowing the plant to absorb moisture through the roots and moss. For potted ferns, water until it drains out the bottom, ensuring the soil is evenly moist.

Remember, these ferns are sensitive to overwatering. Let them dry out slightly between waterings. If you're unsure, it's better to err on the side of underwatering and adjust as needed.

Feeding Your Fern

Like most plants, staghorn ferns benefit from a little fertilizer now and then. However, they're not heavy feeders, so it's important to avoid overdoing it.

Type of Fertilizer: A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer works well for staghorn ferns. You can also use a diluted fish emulsion or a fertilizer specifically designed for epiphytic plants.

Frequency: During the growing season, fertilize your fern once a month. In the fall and winter, you can reduce this to every two to three months. Remember to follow the instructions on your fertilizer package, as over-fertilizing can lead to burnt fronds.

Pruning and Grooming

Pruning isn't a major part of staghorn fern care, but a little grooming now and then can keep your plant looking its best. Here's how you can help your fern stay neat and tidy.

Remove Dead Fronds: From time to time, you might notice older fronds turning brown and dying off. This is normal and part of the plant's natural cycle. Gently trim away these dead fronds with clean scissors to keep your fern looking fresh.

Cleaning the Leaves: Dust can accumulate on the fronds, especially if your fern is indoors. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe the leaves. Avoid using any leaf shine products, as these can damage the plant.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

While generally resilient, staghorn ferns can occasionally fall prey to pests and diseases. Being proactive in identifying and addressing these issues is crucial to keeping your plant healthy.

Common Pests: Staghorn ferns can attract pests like mealybugs, scale, and spider mites. If you spot any, remove them with a gentle spray of water or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Regularly inspecting your plant will help catch infestations early.

Diseases: Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal infections. Ensure your fern has good air circulation and isn't sitting in water. If you notice signs of disease, such as black spots or wilting, reduce watering and remove any affected fronds.

Incorporating Staghorn Ferns into Your Home Decor

Staghorn ferns are not just plants—they're a piece of living art. Incorporating them into your home decor can create a unique and stylish atmosphere.

Wall Displays: Mounting your fern on a wall creates an instant focal point. Hang it as a standalone piece or as part of a gallery wall with other plants and artworks.

Group Arrangements: Staghorn ferns pair beautifully with other houseplants. Group them with different textures and colors for an eclectic look. You can also place them alongside air plants or bromeliads to emphasize their tropical origins.

Hanging Baskets: If you prefer a more traditional look, staghorn ferns can also thrive in hanging baskets. This method allows their fronds to cascade naturally, adding elegance to any room.

Propagation: Growing Your Collection

Once you're comfortable caring for your staghorn fern, you might want to try your hand at propagation. It’s a rewarding way to expand your collection or share with friends.

Division: The simplest method of propagation is division. When your fern grows large enough, you can separate the pups, or offshoots, from the main plant. Carefully remove the plant from its mount or pot, and gently separate the pups. Re-mount or re-pot them, and continue caring for them as you do the parent plant.

Spore Propagation: For those up for a challenge, you can try growing staghorn ferns from spores. This method is more complex and requires patience, but it can be a fun project for plant lovers. Collect spores from the fertile fronds and sow them on a mixture of peat and sand. Keep them in a humid, shaded environment until they germinate.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're mounting them on a wall or letting them hang gracefully from a basket, staghorn ferns can bring a bit of the wild into your home. With the right care, these remarkable plants will thrive and add a unique touch to any space.

At Cafe Planta, we're all about helping you create a beautiful, thriving plant collection. If you have any questions or need some guidance, don't hesitate to email us or send us a message on Instagram. Let's bring nature into our homes together.