What is the best potting mix for maidenhair fern?
A good, homemade potting mix for your Maidenhair fern is one part potting mix, one part compost, and one part peat. This will ensure that you have a fertile, nutrient dense, well-draining soil for your fern to thrive.
What kind of soil do maidenhair ferns like?
The plant typically grows in partial to full shade and prefers moist but well-draining soil amended with organic matter, much like in its natural habitat in humus-rich woods. These ferns do not tolerate dry soil. Most ferns grow best in slightly acidic soils; however, maidenhair ferns prefer a more alkaline soil pH.
Are Epsom salts good for maidenhair fern?
Epsom salt is approximately 13 percent sulfur and 10 percent magnesium, so it provides both of these nutrients and works as a fertilizer. If your ferns are already healthy, it is not helpful and can harm them to over-fertilize by adding epsom salt.
How often should you water a maidenhair fern?
Your best bet when it comes to ensuring your maidenhair fern thrives is to focus on multiple water sources for this thirsty species. Consistently moist soil is a great place to start—from there, be sure to water your fern consistently, either daily or every other day, never allowing the soil to dry out.
How often do you water maidenhair?
He recommends starting with a base of well-draining soil mixed with peat moss and checking its moisture level every few days. Whenever the top of the soil feels even slightly dry, it’s time to water. This need for constant monitoring makes the Maidenhair a prime candidate for a self-watering pot.
When should I repot my fern?
Typically, ferns need to be repotted every two years. Check its roots once a year. If the roots are starting to circle around the container, it is time to repot. If there is still soil around the edge of it, it should be fine for another year.
Is coffee grounds good for ferns?
Coffee grounds are not good for ferns. Using liquid coffee, used or fresh coffee grounds or any other coffee based product as fertilizer for your ferns will inhibit the growth of the plants. Coffee adds too much nitrogen to the soil for a fern.
Does maidenhair fern need sun?
Conditions: bright indirect light, which means the plant must have a wide view of open sky. Direct sun is tolerable but you’ll need to be extra vigilant in checking soil moisture. Care: keep the soil evenly moist; never allow to dry out completely. Nature: expect older fronds to die back as newer ones grow in.
How do you take care of maidenhair ferns indoors?
Aim to keep the soil damp at all times, but never soggy and never let your plant sit in water. As soon as the surface of the soil feels slightly dry, it is time to water again. If you wait too long, especially if you have a small pot, it can quickly become a disaster. The maidenhair fern loves warmer, humid air.
How often should I repot my maidenhair fern?
These ferns can be repotted annually or biannually, depending on the pot size and the plant’s growth rate—they don’t mind being a little crowded, so don’t rush to repot them if you’re unsure. Instead, wait for signs that your fern is outgrowing its home, like the roots filling up the pot. To repot a maidenhair fern successfully:
How do you repot ferns?
To repot successfully: Use a knife or spade to divide the roots. Maintain a minimum of two to three healthy fronds within each division. Plant each section into its own pot, and be sure to water them well. Do not fertilize the repotted ferns right away, as this may burn the roots.
How do you propagate maidenhair ferns?
Maidenhair ferns can also be propagated using spores that develop on the underside of the leaf of a mature fern. Gently remove the spores from the leaf using your hands. Be careful while handling the spores as they are tiny and can easily be scattered. Spread the spores on the soil top and gently spray water over them.
Can maidenhair ferns grow in plastic pots?
Since maidenhair ferns thrive on moisture, it’s recommended to plant it in a pot with drainage holes. Ideally, keep the fern in a plastic pot with holes and then put the plastic pot in a more attractive outer pot. This will allow you to easily check the moisture levels in the plastic pot.