Help with Staghorn Fern !?

Question

I just got a Staghorn Fern from Target this week, it's a small one but it came planted in dirt, I have been reading that they need to be planted in moss, I would like to put it in a hanging metal basket, should I just fill the whole basket with moss and set the plant in there or what? Should I remove the dirt it's in? Please help I don't want to kill it. Thanx

Answer 1

I am a Certified Master Gardener. Horticulture was my major in college, and I volunteer at my local university botanic gardens.

In nature, staghorns are found growing in the "V" of tree limbs. The ferns root themselves naturally via wind-or water borne spores.. The best thing to do for a staghorn is to try to recreate the most natural setting possible.

So, you are going to mount the fern on a 12-inch (or wider) board, about 16 inches long. Also buy a roll of 20 pound test fishing line at a sporting goods store or wherever.

Have the section of board or plank cut at your local Home Depot or lumber yard. Get them to drill a centered hole two inches from the top, or you can do this at home. You will use this to hang the mounted fern from, in indirect light.

Buy about two bags of sphagnum moss, and a small bag of a high-quality potting soil, such as Scott's Professional or Kellogg's brand.

Put the section of board on a table or workbench. Gently loosen the staghorn fern from its pot. Do not remove any soil from the rootball. Place the fern and its rootball in the center of the board. Gently pack spaghnum moss all around it, so the rootball is completely covered by the moss, about 2 inches thick. The moss is going to protect the rootball, and store water for it.

Take 20 lb. test FISHING LINE and wrap it around and around the rootball with the moss. Wrap horizontally, then vertically. About 10 - 15 times around with the fishing line is adequate.

Once you have determined that the rootball and moss are as securely wrapped around the board as possible, tie the fishing line off in back, and knot it about 6 times. Cut the line about 2 inches from the final knot.

You are now ready to hang your beautiful staghorn fern in a location which receives INDIRECT LIGHT ONLY. Like on a sheltered porch or patio, out of direct light.

Water your fern every other day, and let the moss absorb as much water as it can.

Enjoy your beautiful fern for decades to come.

I sincerely hope this helps.

PAMELA J.

Answer 2

Well, I have three huge ones all planted in soil here!! But your soil is probably different to mine. They certainly like damp conditions though.

Answer 3

Spores are microorganisms, which reproduce extremely quickly. Besides, they also live off trees and other plants to get their life energy and food.