How to Grow Polypodium aureum var.
Polypodium aureum is an epiphytic fern that grows on the branches of trees in tropical and subtropical forests. Some varieties of Polypodium are known as rabbit's foot or hare's foot fern because they have a thick, creeping rhizome covered with brown hairs. In a pot or hanging basket, the hairy rhizome will often grow over the edge and creep down the side, making a real conversation piece. Epiphytic ferns are often easier to grow as houseplants than terrestrial ferns because they are adapted to drier conditions. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Select a pot that is wider than the root system of the fern. The pot should be no more than one or two sizes larger than the previous pot the fern was in.
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Remove any heavy, compacted soil from the root ball of the fern, being careful not to damage the rhizome.
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Place lightweight soil mix into the bottom of the pot.
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Hold the fern in the pot so the rhizome is just below the rim of the pot, and continue filling under and around the root ball with soil. Gently compact the soil as you work, filling any voids around the roots. The rhizome should be exposed and resting on the surface of the soil when you are done.
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Water thoroughly by placing the pot in a sink or basin of water and allowing the moisture to be absorbed through the bottom of the pot until the soil at the surface is damp. Repeat whenever the soil has been dry for a day or two. A 1/4-strength solution of water-soluble fertilizer may be added every second or third watering.
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Grow the potted fern in bright, indirect light, such as under a shade tree or near an inside window. Avoid long periods of exposure of the fern to direct sunlight.
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Tips & Warnings
You can make your own lightweight planting mix by adding perlite to any high-quality potting soil.
Clay pots dry out soil faster than plastic ones. Use clay pots if you have a tendency to overwater.
Bring the fern inside the house whenever a frost or freeze is possible.
References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
