Nephrolepis hirsutula
Who has not ever visited their grandmother and been amazed by her hanging plants? For a long time, Ferns They are one of the plants that our elderly people have cultivated the most, and there are many of us who have inherited the pleasure of having several specimens, right?
If you want to know how to keep them as well cared for as they used to be, take note of these tips.
Asplenium nidus
Ferns are plants considered living fossils, as they began to appear on Earth around 400 million years: 200 million years before the planet was home to the largest reptiles it has ever seen, the dinosaurs! You can find species around the world, but especially in humid tropical regions, growing under the shade of large trees.
Most of them are perfect to have in pots as if they were hanging plants, since in cultivation they do not usually exceed one meter in height. Now, you should also know that there are tree species, such as those of the genus Cyathea or Dicksonia, which reach 3-4m in height, with a trunk thickness of about 30cm, and which turn out to be the most suitable candidates to have in gardens with very mild frosts in those shady corners.
cyathea cooperi
Speaking of care, ferns are very grateful plants that settle for little. In fact, it will only be necessary to avoid being exposed directly to sunlight, and frost, since they are sensitive to cold extreme.
As a substrate you can use black peat with perlite, but it is more advisable to mix coconut fiber with perlite or even with equal parts pine bark. Inside the pot, place a layer of volcanic clay so that the water drains quickly. Always keep it slightly damp, especially during spring and summer, watering with rainwater or with that which has a low pH (or use potable water).
Pteris hillebrandii
Do you have ferns in your home?