How to Plant a Deer Foot Fern

The deer foot fern is a member of the davalliaceae family. The fern grows to 12 inches high and as much as 3 feet wide. The broad pinnate fronds are shiny and triangular in shape. Native to tropical areas close to rocks and streams, the fern can be grown indoors in a container throughout the country. Deer foot ferns grow from tubers that need to be planted correctly to grow.

Things You'll Need

• 6-inch diameter container
• Peat moss
• Drainage tray
• Gravel

Instructions

1. Fill a 6-inch diameter container with drainage holes on the side with peat moss. Fill the container up to 1 inch from the lip of the container.

2. Place the rhizome on top of the peat moss. Do not bury the rhizome or cover it with peat moss.

3. Place the container in a drainage tray filled with gravel to promote high humidity around the deer foot fern.

4. Water the rhizome and peat moss until the water runs out the bottom into the drainage tray. Peat moss will hold the moisture, so the plant will only need water when the bottom of the peat moss feels dry. Place your finger in the drainage hole on the side of the container to test the moisture.

5. Place the container in a sunny location with indirect sunlight. Keep the plant in a location where the daytime temperatures are about 70 degrees Fahrenheit and night temperatures are about 60 degrees. The fern should be kept out of drafts and away from heating or air conditioning vents.

References

• University of Vermont: Davallia
• Plant-Care.com: Ferns -- The Varied Family