How To Take Care Of A Mounted Staghorn Fern

Taking care of a mounted staghorn fern starts with understanding its unique needs as an epiphytic plant.
 
These ferns attach themselves to trees in the wild rather than growing in soil, so your mounted staghorn fern requires a similar approach at home.
 
If you’re wondering how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern properly, the key is to mimic its natural habitat with the right watering, light, and feeding routine.
 
In this post we’ll cover the essential steps for taking care of a mounted staghorn fern so it stays healthy and vibrant.
 
Let’s explore how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern so you can enjoy this stunning plant for many years.
 

How to Take Care of a Mounted Staghorn Fern: Watering and Moisture

Watering is the most critical part of learning how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern correctly.
 
Unlike potted plants, your mounted staghorn fern dries out faster because it’s exposed to air on all sides.
 

1. How Often to Water a Mounted Staghorn Fern

How often you water a mounted staghorn fern depends on your climate and the season.
 
During warmer months, you may need to water your mounted staghorn fern two to three times per week.
 
In cooler months, once a week is usually enough for taking care of a mounted staghorn fern.
 
The best way to know is to touch the moss or bark base around your mounted staghorn fern.
 
If it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water your mounted staghorn fern again.
 

2. The Soaking Method for Mounted Staghorn Ferns

The most effective technique for how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern is the soaking method.
 
Remove your mounted staghorn fern from the wall and submerge the entire mount in a bucket of room-temperature water.
 
Let your mounted staghorn fern soak for 10 to 20 minutes so the roots absorb moisture fully.
 
After soaking, let your mounted staghorn fern drain completely before hanging it back up.
 
This method ensures deep hydration, which is essential for taking care of a mounted staghorn fern properly.
 

3. Signs of Overwatering and Underwatering

Even when learning how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern, mistakes with water are common.
 
If the fronds of your mounted staghorn fern turn yellow or mushy, you may be overwatering.
 
If the fronds turn brown and crispy at the tips, your mounted staghorn fern likely needs more water.
 
Finding the right balance is key when learning how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern.
 

Light and Temperature for a Mounted Staghorn Fern

Getting light and temperature right is another big part of how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern.
 
These ferns come from tropical forests, so they need bright but indirect conditions to thrive.
 

1. The Best Light for Your Mounted Staghorn Fern

Your mounted staghorn fern loves bright, indirect light, similar to what it gets under a forest canopy.
 
A spot near an east or north-facing window works perfectly for taking care of a mounted staghorn fern.
 
Direct sunlight can scorch the fronds of your mounted staghorn fern, so avoid south or west windows without shade.
 
If you’re taking care of a mounted staghorn fern in a low-light room, consider a grow light to supplement.
 
Proper light is essential when learning how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern because it affects growth and overall health.
 

2. Temperature and Humidity Needs

Your mounted staghorn fern prefers temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit for best results.
 
Taking care of a mounted staghorn fern also means protecting it from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
 
Humidity is another factor in how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern since it loves moist air.
 
Misting your mounted staghorn fern regularly or placing it near a humidifier helps maintain the humidity it craves.
 
Bathrooms with good light can be great spots for taking care of a mounted staghorn fern because of the extra moisture.
 

Feeding and Fertilizing Your Mounted Staghorn Fern

Feeding is an often overlooked step in how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern but it makes a big difference.
 
Since your mounted staghorn fern doesn’t grow in soil, it relies on you for nutrients.
 

1. When to Fertilize a Mounted Staghorn Fern

Fertilize your mounted staghorn fern during the active growing season, which is spring through early fall.
 
Once a month is a good schedule for taking care of a mounted staghorn fern with fertilizer.
 
Avoid feeding your mounted staghorn fern in winter when growth naturally slows down.
 
Consistent feeding helps your mounted staghorn fern develop larger, more impressive fronds over time.
 

2. The Right Fertilizer for Mounted Staghorn Ferns

A balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength works well for taking care of a mounted staghorn fern.
 
You can also use a fertilizer specifically formulated for epiphytic plants to support your mounted staghorn fern.
 
Some plant owners add a banana peel to the mount as a natural potassium boost for their mounted staghorn fern.
 
Applying fertilizer during watering is the easiest method for taking care of a mounted staghorn fern’s nutritional needs.
 

Mounting and Maintenance Tips for a Mounted Staghorn Fern

Even with good care, your mounted staghorn fern may eventually outgrow its mount or need refreshing.
 
Knowing when and how to remount is a valuable skill for taking care of a mounted staghorn fern long term.
 

1. When to Remount Your Staghorn Fern

If your mounted staghorn fern looks overcrowded or the mount begins to rot, it’s time for a change.
 
Typically you’ll need to remount your staghorn fern every two to three years for optimal health.
 
Spring is the best season for remounting when taking care of a mounted staghorn fern.
 

2. How to Remount a Staghorn Fern

To remount your staghorn fern, gently remove it from the old mount and trim any dead fronds.
 
Place your staghorn fern on a new piece of wood or bark with the shield frond facing the mount.
 
Secure your staghorn fern with fishing line or soft twine until the roots reattach to the new surface.
 
Water your newly mounted staghorn fern thoroughly and keep it in a shaded spot for a few weeks.
 
This is a normal part of how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern as it grows and matures.
 

So, How to Take Care of a Mounted Staghorn Fern?

Taking care of a mounted staghorn fern is all about mimicking its natural environment with consistent watering, bright indirect light, proper feeding, and occasional remounting.
 
When you understand how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern, this unique plant becomes one of the most rewarding houseplants to grow.
 
Start with the soaking method for watering, find the right light spot, feed it monthly during warm seasons, and check the mount condition regularly.
 
Following these steps for how to take care of a mounted staghorn fern ensures your plant stays lush, healthy, and impressive for years to come.
 
Enjoy the process of taking care of a mounted staghorn fern and watch it become a living work of art in your home.