The Lace Leaf Fern (Phlebodium aureum ‘Grandiceps’) is a houseplant known for its distinctive, deeply lobed, ruffled, wavy fronds that create a “lacy” appearance, distinguishing it from other ferns. Its vibrant green color adds a refreshing aesthetic. It enhances living spaces with lush, textured greenery.
Lace Leaf Fern Care
Lace Leaf Ferns thrive in conditions mimicking their natural habitat; consistent attention to light, water, humidity, and soil ensures healthy growth. Understanding these requirements helps cultivate a robust plant.
Lace Leaf Ferns prefer bright, indirect light. An east-facing window with gentle morning sun is ideal; a few feet from a south or west-facing window also works if light is diffused to prevent scorching. Direct sunlight damages fronds, causing discoloration or burn spots.
Consistent soil moisture is key; soil should remain evenly moist but never waterlogged, which causes root issues. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Proper drainage is crucial, allowing excess water to escape.
High humidity benefits Lace Leaf Ferns, maintaining frond integrity. Dry air causes frond tips to brown and crisp. Increase humidity with a pebble tray, room humidifier, or by grouping plants. Misting foliage offers a temporary humidity boost.
A well-draining, airy potting mix that retains moisture and prevents compaction is ideal. A suitable blend includes peat moss, perlite, and pine bark. This combination provides aeration and efficient water movement.
Fertilization supports growth during active periods. During spring and summer, apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer about once a month. Reduce or discontinue fertilization during fall and winter when growth naturally slows. Over-fertilizing can harm roots and foliage; moderation is important.
Lace Leaf Ferns prefer consistent room temperatures, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 24 degrees Celsius). They do not tolerate extreme temperature fluctuations, which stresses the plant. Protecting them from cold drafts (e.g., from open windows or AC vents) helps maintain a stable environment.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Promptly addressing common issues helps maintain Lace Leaf Fern health and appearance. Recognizing signs of distress allows timely intervention and correction. Many problems stem from adjustable environmental factors.
Browning or crispy frond tips often indicate insufficient humidity or underwatering. Excessive direct light can also scorch fronds, leading to browning. Increase humidity, adjust watering frequency, or relocate the plant to a shadier spot to resolve these issues.
Lace Leaf Ferns can be susceptible to pests (e.g., spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects). Regular inspection of fronds and stems helps in early detection. If pests are found, treat them by wiping with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by applying an insecticidal soap. Neem oil is another effective, non-toxic option.
Yellowing leaves can signal several problems. Overwatering is a common cause; persistently soggy soil can lead to root rot, manifesting as yellowing foliage. Nutrient deficiencies, especially lack of micronutrients, can also contribute to yellowing. Too much direct light can also cause a faded, yellowish appearance. Adjust watering, provide appropriate fertilization, or move the plant to a less intense light spot to alleviate these symptoms.
Propagating Lace Leaf Ferns
Lace Leaf Ferns are best propagated through division, creating new plants from a mature specimen. This process is performed when the fern is large and benefits from separation. Division also refreshes the potting mix and allows root system inspection.
To divide, carefully remove the fern from its pot, gently loosening the root ball. Identify natural sections of the rhizome (the horizontal stem from which roots and fronds emerge) with healthy fronds and roots. Using a clean, sharp knife or your hands, carefully separate these sections, ensuring each new division has viable roots and foliage.
Pot each new division into its own container with fresh, well-draining potting mix. New pots should be appropriately sized for divided sections, allowing room for future growth. After potting, water new ferns thoroughly to settle soil around roots and place them in bright, indirect light for establishment.