How to Grow Staghorn Fern
Platycerium bifurcatum
Staghorn fern is an epiphytic fern that grows mounted on boards or in hanging baskets rather than in soil. It produces flat shield fronds (which anchor it and should never be removed, even when brown) and dramatic antler-shaped fertile fronds. Water by soaking the root ball weekly in spring/summer, less in winter. It thrives in bright indirect light with good humidity. Avoid direct sun and never let water pool in the crown. Non-toxic to pets.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Feed monthly during spring and summer with a diluted balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength. Pour it into the root ball or soak the mount. Do not feed in winter.
Watch For
- Scale insects on frond undersides
- Mealybug in crevices between shield and antler fronds
- Black spot fungus from overwatering or poor air circulation
- Brown patches from direct sun scorching
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Bright indirect light
Thrives in bright filtered light. Avoid direct sun which scorches the fronds. A north or east-facing window is ideal.
Watering
Soak weekly, less in winter
Submerge the root ball in room-temperature water for 10-15 minutes weekly. Let drain fully before re-hanging. Reduce to fortnightly in winter.
Fertilizing
Monthly diluted feed, spring to summer
Add half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser to the soaking water monthly during spring and summer. Stop feeding in autumn and winter.
Pruning
Never remove shield fronds
Do not remove brown shield fronds as they protect the roots and absorb nutrients. Only trim dead or diseased antler frond tips if needed.
