These are very unique and lovely for the gardeners and enthusiasts as such, due to the antler-like fronds of theirs and epiphytic habit. Staghorn fern grows natively in the tropical and subtropical regions. It is widely cultivated throughout the world as an ornamental plant. This exotics origin does raise an important question for the gardener of the cooler climates: How cold-tolerant are staghorn ferns, and what can be done to protect them during the colder months? This article explores the cold hardiness of staghorn ferns and offers practical tips for ensuring their survival in less-than-ideal conditions.

Understanding Staghorn Ferns’ Native Habitat

Staghorn ferns are naturally found in warmer humid areas of Africa, Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Americas. It epiphytically attaches to trees on which it relies for moisture and nutrients it collects from the air and debris falling into its roots. They hardly have freezing temperatures and are always accustomed to warm temperatures with high humidity. All this has to be put into perspective when assessing their cold tolerance.

General Cold Tolerance of Staghorn Ferns

Staghorn ferns are not frost-hardy plants. Most species can tolerate brief exposure to temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C), but prolonged exposure to temperatures below this threshold can cause damage or death. Some larger and more mature specimens may withstand slightly colder conditions, but this is not the norm.

The exact cold tolerance of a staghorn fern depends on several factors, including:

Species and Variety:

There are about 18 species of staghorn ferns, and they tolerate cold differently. The most commonly cultivated species is Platycerium bifurcatum, which, as it happens, is just a little more cold-tolerant than most species and should be safeguarded from short dips to 30°F (-1°C).

Plant Age and Size:

Older staghorn ferns that are developed with good root systems can stand more cold than younger ones. Larger plants have more stored energy and structural integrity to deal with short periods of stress.

Microclimate:

Growing conditions of the fern can impact its ability to withstand the cold, such as growing it closer to walls, trees, or other plants. Shaded locations may provide shelter from cold winds and frost.

A short period overnight chill is not as threatening as a longer duration of cold spell. Extensive prolonged freezing will result in extensive damage to the staghorn fern.

Indicators of Cold Injury to Staghorn Ferns

Immediately after some time that passed during temperature below their threshold level, the symptoms of cold stress and injury will be visibly evident in the staghorn fern. These are:

Browning or Blackening of Fronds: The fronds that have been damaged due to cold are often seen brown or black, especially at the tips.

Soft or Mushy Tissue: The tissues of this fern can become water logged and mushy due to ice formation.

Wilting or Drooping: A droopy, limp fern suggests that it has been frost-stressed.

Root Damage: In extreme cases, the root system is damaged due to which the plant goes downhill eventually.

How to Care for a Staghorn Fern in Cold

Although staghorn ferns don’t naturally thrive in cold climates, there are still some ways to protect them from the cold months. These methods might help reduce damage and ensure the survival of the plant:

Bring Them Indoors

Simple yet practical ways of keeping the fern safe from cold weather include moving the ferns indoors. Change the fern to a brighter location that has drafts of moisture-free air. Such locations include bathrooms and kitchen locations where there is often a humidifier.

Dress with Protective Covers

If the fern cannot be brought inside, protect the fern with frost cloths, blankets, or burlap that will insulate the cold air. Make sure that covers do not let cold air inside.

Create a Microclimate:

Place the fern against a south-facing wall, under the canopy of a tree, or in a greenhouse to protect it from wind and frost. Adding mulch to the bottom also helps keep warmth inside.

Supplemental Heating:

Provide heat at night by using heat lamps, space heaters, or string lights. The heat source should not, however be allowed to touch the plant since it must be kept a few inches away from it.

Water Smart:

Do not overwater when it gets cold since the excess water may freeze and damage the roots. Allow the plant to dry a little before giving it some water.

Monitor Local Weather Forecast

Monitor local weather to determine the cold snap and be ready before the cold hits your place.

Overwintering Staghorn Ferns

For gardeners whose climates have freezing winter, the best option is to overwinter the staghorn fern indoors. Here are a few tips to successful overwintering:

Select Location

Choose an area that receives bright, indirect light, and high humidity. In case the air inside your house is dry, use a pebble tray or a humidifier.

Temperature Requirements

Keep the temperature between 50°F (10°C) and 75°F (24°C). This should closely represent the natural conditions under which the fern would live.

Reduce Fertilizing

Staghorn ferns go dormant and grow slower during the winter months. Fertilize less or not at all until spring.

Check for Pests:

Inspect your staghorn fern for pests, such as scale insects and mealybugs, that can easily thrive indoors. Treating infestations immediately can be done with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Recovery from Cold Damage

If your staghorn fern has gotten damaged from cold, never give up. Many plants can recover with proper care:

Prune Damaged Fronds:

Remove the dead and damaged fronds to avoid rotting them and encouraging new fronds.

Provide Warmth and Humidity:

Place the fern in a warm, humid environment to give it a chance to revitalize. Mist the plant to enhance humidity.

Resume Regular Care

Once the fern settles, return to your feeding and watering schedule.

Wait

Recovery can take its time, especially with badly injured plants. Avoid the urge to try to hurry them along with too much water or food.

Cold-Tolerant Alternatives

For growers with colder climates who have an issue growing staghorn ferns, there are alternatives that are equally as visually appealing but thrive in the cooler conditions. Some to consider are Asplenium nidus, commonly called the bird’s nest fern, or hardy ferns such as Polystichum munitum, or the western sword fern.

Conclusion

Staghorn ferns are beautiful and rewarding plants, but they come from the tropics and, therefore, are sensitive to low temperatures. Understanding their tolerance to cold and taking precautionary measures to protect them might ensure their survival in far-from-ideal conditions. Indoor, microclimate creation, or protective measures might allow a beauty of these unique plants all through the year. Even with due care and attention, even cooler climates can grow and celebrate the majestic staghorn fern.