Staghorn Fern (Platycerium)
Generally easy to grow, this exuberant and unusual plant, which grows on the side of a tree in nature, has large antler-like leaves that make it a real presence in the room. With time, it will produce “pups” which can be removed to make more plants, or leave the family together for a huge airy gathering.
Light - Needs the partly shaded indirect light of a sunporch or eastern window; hang outdoors on a tree in summer.
Temperature - 70s F ideal.
Watering - Allow to dry out completely between waterings; the plant can even wilt slightly first.
Feeding - Give a 10:10:10 fertilizer monthly during growing months then every other month when growth slows.
Potting Mix - Grow in a pot with sphagnum moss. Staghorns can also be grown mounted on wood or on a treefern basket.
Tips - An over watered staghorn will die, but a wilted one will usually bounce back quickly, so err on the side of under watering.
Written by Graham Rice