The staghorn fern (Platycerium) is a fascinating plant known for its unique appearance, which resembles the antlers of a deer. This organism is an epiphyte, meaning it naturally grows non-parasitically upon other plants, such as tree trunks, using them solely for physical support. Because these ferns do not require soil to thrive, mounting them onto a backing mimics their natural arboreal habitat and is the preferred method for home cultivation. This process creates a visually stunning “living art” piece, often referred to as a fern ball or plaque.
Preparation: Gathering Supplies and Preparing the Fern
Gathering the appropriate materials is necessary to ensure the long-term health of the mounted fern. The foundation should be a sturdy, rot-resistant wood plaque; cedar or redwood are excellent choices due to their natural resistance to decay when exposed to consistent moisture. A moisture-retentive medium, such as long-fiber sphagnum moss or coir, is required to provide a stable, damp environment for the fern’s relatively small root system. To secure the plant, use a thin, strong material like fishing line or dark floral wire, along with an eye hook or similar hardware for hanging.
The staghorn fern should be a healthy “pup,” or offset, which has been separated from a mature specimen. Gently remove all excess potting soil or planting mix from its root ball. Any dead, mushy, or damaged roots should be carefully trimmed away using sterilized scissors or shears to prevent potential rot. This cleaning step ensures the fern is ready to establish a clean attachment to the sphagnum medium and the wooden plaque.
The Mounting Process: Step-by-Step Construction
Secure the hanging mechanism to the wooden plaque before the plant is attached, as this avoids disturbing the fern later. Typically, a sturdy eye hook or a pair of small screws and wire are affixed to the back or top edge of the plaque for secure display. Next, soak the sphagnum moss or coir medium in water, then squeeze it lightly to remove excess moisture, leaving it damp but not dripping wet. Shape this prepared medium into a firm, slightly flattened mound directly onto the center of the wooden plaque, forming the base of the fern ball.
Position the staghorn fern pup onto the moss mound, paying close attention to the orientation of its fronds. The sterile shield fronds (the flat, round, or kidney-shaped structures) must be placed flush against the wooden plaque. These fronds will eventually turn brown and harden, protecting the root ball and acting as a natural sponge to absorb water and debris. In contrast, the fertile “antler” fronds should be pointed outward and away from the mounting surface.
Once the fern is positioned, begin the wrapping technique using fishing line or wire to tightly secure the plant and the medium to the plaque. Starting from the back, wrap the line over the moss mound and the root ball, crisscrossing several times to create tension. Pull the line taut enough to ensure the structure is stable and will not shift when hung, but avoid cutting into the sterile shield fronds. Fishing line is often preferred because it becomes virtually invisible over time, allowing the shield fronds to grow over the securing material. Knot the line securely at the back of the plaque.
Ensuring Success: Ongoing Watering and Care
Successful long-term growth depends on proper hydration and placement. The most effective method for watering is the soak technique, where the entire plaque and root ball are submerged in a basin of water for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the sphagnum moss to become fully saturated, ensuring the root mass receives adequate moisture before the mount is removed and allowed to drain thoroughly. Alternatively, the medium can be thoroughly sprayed with water, but the soak method is more dependable for deep hydration.
The frequency of watering depends on environmental factors, but the moss should be allowed to dry slightly to the touch before the next hydration cycle begins. Ideal placement is in an area that receives bright, indirect light, such as near an east-facing window, avoiding the intensity of direct midday sun. Staghorn ferns thrive in average household temperatures, preferring a range between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Nutrient application is important, as the fern is not drawing sustenance from soil. During the active growing season, a highly diluted liquid fertilizer (often at one-quarter strength) can be added to the soaking water once a month. Slow-release fertilizer pellets can also be gently tucked directly into the sphagnum moss around the root ball to provide a steady supply of nutrients. Over several years, the fern may outgrow its current mount, requiring the entire root mass and shield fronds to be carefully detached and secured to a larger wooden plaque.