Have you ever heard of a staghorn fern? They’re one of the most fascinating houseplants out right now, especially when you’re looking for unique home decor. They sort of look like big antlers! Staghorn ferns are easy to plant and grow, as they don’t need soil. You can mount these indoor plants on just about any wall, similar to air plants. Staghorn ferns also don’t have any flowers or seeds; instead, the fern has two types of fronds (often mistaken for leaves!):antler fronds and shield fronds. The antler fronds are long with uneven tips and grow from the center of the plant out in every direction. The shield fronds grow from the base of the plant and protect the root ball, keeping it anchored in place.
It’s easy to care for a staghorn fern because they’re very resourceful. Mounting a staghorn fern is a great DIY technique as they store water and nutrients through their fronds, not their roots. Knowing how to water a staghorn fern and where to hang one isn’t as difficult as you might think! This easy-to-follow guide will help you learn how to mount a staghorn fern at home and, most importantly, keep it alive!
Tools and Materials
Here are some important tools and materials to have on hand when preparing to mount a staghorn fern in the comfort of your home.
- 1 potted staghorn fern (the most important piece!)
- A piece of wood like driftwood or wooden board
- Bowl or plate for circle drawing
- Pencil
- Hammer
- At least 6 nails
- Fishing line
- Sheet moss or sphagnum moss
- 1 screw and string (or picture hanging supplies)
Mounting a Staghorn Fern
1. Choosing a Fern and Mount
This may seem obvious, but this first step is to ensure you know what size mounting board you’ll need! Check out your local nurseries to find the perfect look, color, and size that fits what you’re going for before you mount.
2. Measuring
Now that you have your fern, it’s time to start measuring. Use that bowl or plate to trace a circle on your board that’s an inch wider than the circumference of the plant.
3. Drilling and Adding the Screws
Hammer six nails (minimum) evenly spaced along the circle you just traced. Leave ¼ inch of space between the board and the nail head. Tip: The more nails you use, the more secure your staghorn fern will be!
4. Getting Your Fern Ready
Place some potting soil onto the board within the circle. Remove the staghorn fern from its pot and tear the roots off so you’re left with only an inch of dirt attached to the plant. Then, place the base of the plant on top of the soil on the board.
5. Adding Moss and Secure the Fern
Tear pieces of moss and press it around the base of your fern. Make sure the moss is inside the circle of nails on the board!
6. Tie the Fishing Line
Tie one end of the fishing line or picture hanger string around one of the nails. Then, stretch that line across the base of the fern all the way to a nail that’s on the opposite side of the circle. Wrap the line several times around the nail until it’s taut so the plant is secure.
7. Hanging the Staghorn Fern
After the fern’s been secured to the piece of wood, test to make sure it’s fully attached by gently lifting it vertically. Hang the finished product in a spot with some bright, indirect light.
8. Mount the Staghorn Fern
You can use some screws and twine to mount it up on a wall or over a shelf that needs some plant love!
9. Water Your Staghorn Fern
Staghorn ferns are pretty low maintenance. You’ll only need to water it weekly.
10. Take Care and Enjoy!
Caring for a mounted staghorn fern is easy. Soon enough, with practice, you’ll become a plant whisperer and grow right along with them!
How to Water and Care for Your Staghorn Fern
These tropical plants require a bit more care than just having secure wall mounting. To take care of your staghorn fern mount, follow this tutorial.
- To water your staghorn fern, remove the board from the wall and soak the entire board and plant in a tub.
- Make sure the fern and board dry completely before hanging it back up! Place it upright in the tub to let all the excess water drain off.
- Your staghorn fern needs constant moisture to mimic its natural environment. It will be more than happy with a nice mist of water every now and then between showers.
- If the fronds look wilted and brown, more water please! If they’re brown or black at the base, you’re overwatering it.
Need Help Mounting Your Staghorn Fern?
If you’re looking to save time and effort when mounting your staghorn fern, Taskers are a great option. Showcase your green companion in the best light possible (pun intended) and hire precise, experienced Taskers. So sit back, relax, and let Taskers turn your staghorn fern into a mounted masterpiece!
