Staghorn ferns are epiphytic plants, growing on other structures, not soil. Their distinctive, antler-like fronds are captivating. Repotting or re-mounting is often necessary for health, accommodating root expansion and providing fresh media.
Understanding Staghorn Ferns and Repotting Needs
Staghorn ferns have two frond types: basal (shield) and fertile (antler). Basal fronds are flat, rounded structures growing against the mounting surface, protecting roots, absorbing water and nutrients. They turn brown and papery with age, collecting debris and moisture. Fertile fronds are green, forked leaves extending outward, responsible for photosynthesis and reproduction.
Repotting or re-mounting is necessary when the fern outgrows its current setup. Signs include roots sprawling from drainage holes, growing in a tight circle, or plant instability. Inefficient water absorption or quick drainage from compacted roots indicates a new home. Optimal recovery time is during the active growing season in spring or early summer.
Gathering Your Repotting Supplies
Gathering the right tools and materials ensures a smooth repotting or mounting process. You will need:
- Sturdy mounting surfaces: wooden boards, cork bark, or driftwood.
- Sphagnum moss for root ball moisture retention.
- Fishing line, nylon string, or floral wire to secure the fern to its mount or basket.
- Hammer and small nails for board mounting.
- Scissors or pruners for trimming dead/damaged fronds.
- For baskets or pots, a container one size larger with adequate drainage.
- For potted ferns, a well-draining mix of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite or peat (avoid standard potting soil).
Step-by-Step Guide to Repotting Staghorn Ferns
Preparing the Fern
Before repotting or mounting, remove the fern from its current container or mount. Support the plant’s base to prevent damage. If roots adhere, a gentle tap loosens them. Inspect the root ball for decay (e.g., soft or discolored roots), trimming with clean, sharp shears.
Repotting into a Basket or Pot
When transferring a staghorn fern into a basket, line it with about one inch of moist sphagnum moss for moisture retention. Fill the basket halfway with a well-draining potting mix (e.g., shredded pine bark, sphagnum moss, orchid mix). Position the fern centrally, ensuring roots are covered but basal fronds remain exposed. Gently press the mix around the roots to secure the plant, then water thoroughly to settle the medium.
Mounting a Staghorn Fern
To mount a staghorn fern onto a board, soak sphagnum moss until saturated. Remove the fern from its pot, loosening the root ball and spreading roots flat. Position the fern on the mounting surface, ensuring basal fronds face downward when hung. Form a mound of damp sphagnum moss around the root ball.
To secure the fern, place small nails around the moss-covered root ball, leaving a portion exposed. Tie fishing line or nylon string to a nail. Crisscross the line over the moss and around the nails, pulling taut to hold the fern. Continue wrapping until secure, then tie off the end and trim excess line.
Re-mounting an Existing Staghorn Fern
Re-mounting a larger staghorn fern is similar but requires a more robust mounting surface for its size and weight. If the existing board is suitable, add fresh moss around the root ball and re-secure.
If the fern has outgrown its mount, detach it and prepare a larger board. Ensure the new mount supports the fern’s expanding mass, securing it with strong fishing line or wire, following the same technique.
Post-Repotting Care for Success
After repotting or re-mounting, staghorn ferns need specific care to recover. Water thoroughly immediately to settle the new medium. For mounted ferns, soak the entire mount in a sink or basin for 10-30 minutes until the root ball is saturated. Allow excess water to drain before re-hanging.
Place the fern in bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch fronds. Staghorn ferns thrive in humid environments; misting fronds regularly increases ambient humidity, especially indoors. A humidity tray with pebbles and water provides consistent moisture. Allow the medium to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot, as newly repotted plants are more susceptible to overwatering.