Staghorn Ferns are an extremely unique plant, and create a striking conversational piece in your home
They are considered an epiphytic plant, meaning they grow on the sides of other plants or objects, such as trees, for support
Arguably the most unique trait of the Elkhorn fern is the fact that once it is well established and matured, it needs to be mounted on a board or another mounted organic material
This plant will need partial, dappled sunlight similar to the environment of a tree covering
High humidity is essential, and temperatures between 50-100 degrees F
You will need peat, compost, moss, or another organic material for the root ball to set into
Acidic PH and minimal once mounted, though re-mounting will be an ongoing need as the plant grows
For mess free watering take down the mounted plant and place in a large sink filled with water, allowing it to soak for at least 10 minutes until the roots are fully saturated
Allow to drip for a while before placing vertical again
The easiest and most reliable way to propagate a healthy staghorn fern is through root division
Dividing the plant into ‘chunks’ that include a small root ball and strong leaves, then planting in small containers with peat and compost to mature and strengthen before mounting
Unlike most other plants, this fern will require constant fertilizing almost year round
They are very slow growing and fertilizing will help strengthen the fern and encourage growth at a slightly faster rate
Liquid fertilizer is best
The Staghorn or Elkhorn fern is a unique and captivating plant to include in your collection if you have the right environment, the time and knowledge to care for it, and take the steps to be responsible about growing it as it is considered an invasive species