Frosty ferns are very misunderstood plants, both in name and care requirements. They frequently pop up in stores and nurseries around the holidays (probably due to their wintery name) but many buyers see them fail and die soon after they come home. Keep reading to learn more frosty fern information, including how to grow a frosty fern correctly.
Frosty Fern Information
What is a frosty fern? Common consensus seems to have trouble on this front, because the frosty fern (sometimes also sold as a “Frosted Fern”) isn’t actually a fern at all! Known as Selaginella kraussiana, it is actually a variety of spike moss (which, confusingly enough, isn’t really a kind of moss either). Does any of this matter for knowing how to grow it? Not really. What’s important to know is that a frosty fern is what’s known as a “fern ally,” which means that even though it isn’t technically a fern, it behaves like one, reproducing via spores. The frosty fern gets its name from the distinctive white color of its new growth, giving its tips a frosted appearance. In optimal conditions, it can reach 12 inches in height (31 cm.), but in homes it tends to top out at about 8 inches (20 cm.).
How to Grow a Frosty Fern
Care for frosty ferns can be a little tricky, and gardeners who don’t know a few simple growing requirements are often frustrated by plants that quickly fail. The most important thing to know when growing frosty fern plants is that they need at least 70 percent humidity. This is much higher than the average home. In order to keep your plant moist enough, you’ll need to raise the humidity by keeping it on top of a tray of pebbles and water, or in a terrarium. Frosty ferns actually perform very well in terrariums since they’re small and require little light. Water frequently, but don’t let your plant’s roots sit in standing water. The frosty fern does best in temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees F. (15-27 C.) and will start to suffer in temperatures much hotter or colder. Too much nitrogen fertilizer will turn the white tips green, so make sure to feed sparingly. As long as you treat it right, your frosty fern will grow reliably and beautifully for years.
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