The staghorn fern (Platycerium genus) is an epiphyte, meaning it naturally grows attached to tree trunks and branches rather than in soil. To cultivate this plant successfully at home, you must replicate its native tropical environment. Mounting it in a basket is a popular method that provides the necessary drainage and air circulation. This process allows the fern to develop its signature two types of fronds—the upright, antler-like fertile fronds and the flat, protective shield fronds—in a way that promotes robust growth.
Essential Materials and Preparation
Before mounting, gather a sturdy wire or wooden hanging basket, a generous amount of sphagnum moss, and a durable securing material like fishing line or thin floral wire. Sphagnum moss is the preferred medium because it is lightweight, retains moisture, and mimics the organic debris the fern gathers in its natural habitat. Soak the dry moss thoroughly in water for at least one hour to ensure it is fully hydrated before you start working.
The basket must be lined completely with a layer of the pre-moistened sphagnum moss or a coir fiber liner. This lining creates a moisture-retentive base and prevents the loose moss from falling through the wire frame. The lining should be approximately one inch thick and firmly pressed against the interior surface of the basket. Finally, carefully remove the fern from its original pot and gently shake off any loose soil from the root ball, exposing the rhizome and the base of the fronds.
Securing the Fern to the Basket
The proper placement of the fern within the lined basket is the first step in successful mounting. Position the fern’s root ball against the inner moss lining, typically slightly off-center or near the top rim of the basket, depending on the desired display angle. Ensure the plant’s growth point, where new fronds emerge, is oriented outward or upward for proper expansion and light exposure. The flat shield fronds, which protect the root ball, must not be buried beneath the moss medium.
Once the root ball is situated, pack additional moist sphagnum moss firmly around the exposed roots and the base of the plant. This medium must completely encase the root structure, creating a tight, stable mound that serves as the anchoring point and water reservoir for the fern. The moss package should be dense enough to hold its shape but not so compressed that it restricts air flow to the roots.
To secure the entire structure, use the fishing line or floral wire to tightly wrap the moss package to the basket frame. Start by anchoring one end of the line to the basket wire, then weave the line repeatedly over the moss and through the basket mesh in a crisscross pattern. This wrapping process must be firm enough to render the fern completely immobile, preventing any shifting that could damage the delicate emerging roots. Take care not to puncture or tightly bind the shield fronds.
Continue wrapping until the root ball and moss are securely fastened and cannot be easily dislodged with a gentle tug. A stable mount is essential because the fern will not produce anchor roots if it experiences constant movement. Fishing line is often preferred because its near-invisibility allows the fern to appear naturally attached once the shield fronds cover the medium. After securing, trim any excess line and ensure the basket hangs evenly.
Immediate Post-Mounting Care
Immediately following mounting, the fern requires deep watering to saturate the sphagnum moss and rehydrate the plant. The most effective method is to submerge the entire basket into a container of water for five to ten minutes, allowing the moss to fully absorb moisture until air bubbles stop rising. After soaking, allow all excess water to drain completely before hanging the basket. This practice mimics the natural downpour and dry-out cycle of its native tropical environment.
Place the newly mounted fern in an area that receives bright, indirect light, such as a north- or east-facing window, or under a shaded canopy outdoors. Direct sunlight can quickly scorch the fertile fronds. Maintaining temperatures consistently between 50 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal, requiring protection from cold drafts or temperatures below 40 degrees.
For the first few weeks, monitor the moss daily, watering again only when it feels barely damp or dry to the touch. This typically occurs every one to two weeks, depending on ambient humidity. During this establishment phase, the fern focuses on growing new roots into the fresh moss medium. Avoid unnecessary handling or moving the basket, allowing the plant undisturbed time to properly anchor itself.