STAGHORN FERN

Platycerium (Staghorn) Ferns are not really ferns but are considered ferns by the manner in which they reproduce.  Staghorn ferns are actually epiphytes.  Epiphytes rely on moisture and nutrients from the air and rain.  The staghorn is not parasitic to the plant on which it grows but uses the host plant to anchor itself.  These plants are prehistoric by nature.  In nature, they do not have any soil to cover their roots.  The roots are used to anchor the staghorn to its host.  The substrate fronds collect moisture and debris for the roots and also hold the staghorn to the host plant.  In cultivating the staghorn we have to place soil and moss around the plant to substitute for the debris that would naturally fall around the roots of the plant and also to keep the plant from drying out.

The staghorn fern happens to be one of my favorite plants.  I have included some step-by-step photos of how to mount a staghorn fern to an ordinary piece of driftwood.  I have also included links to some educational and interesting websites about Platycerium Ferns.

	Step 1   Here is what you will need: 4" potted Staghorn Fern  Wood (I use driftwood that we find on our walks.) Staple Gun Handy Wrap or Chicken Wire Orchid Moss Potting Soil
Step 2 Loosely staple handy wrap to the wood.  Cut an X in middle of wrap and place 4" plant in wrap.
	Step 3 Pack with soil and moistened orchid moss.  Finish stapling to secure.
Step 4 Water thoroughly.  Attach picture wire to back to hang if desired.  Let plant dry out between watering.  Place out of direct sunlight and outside in warmer weather. Bring indoors when the temperature falls below 50 degrees.

http://fernfactory.com http://floridagardener.com/pom/staghorn.htm http://naturepark.freeservers.com/staghorn

For information about me please see my resume. To contact me go to JPBrannan@aol.com

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