Care Tips– Care Advice for Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myers’)
Study the Foxtail Fern
This attractive houseplant is easy to grow and, in the eyes of some, more ornamental than the asparagus fern, one of its close relatives.
Instead of being a true fern, the foxtail fern is a member of the lily family.
Despite bearing no familial resemblance to the edible vegetable asparagus, it is related to it.
The stems of this plant are densely covered with 1 in (2.5 cm) needle-like leaflets, giving it a delicate, feathery appearance.
But despite how fragile it appears, it is not.
In its native, warm-climate African forests, foxtail fern is an aggressive growth that has the potential to become invasive.
However, it is not a problem because it is in a pot. Trim the stems or divide the plant to control it in Spring.
Year-round Foxtail Fern Production
Retrim it back. To keep this fern bushy and compact, trim the stems.
To encourage new growth and to maintain the plant looking its best, remove old, fading fronds.
In the spring, repot. Change to a pot that is just 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) bigger.
Because the fleshy, tuberous roots can occasionally shove the potting mix up as they develop, leave at least 1 in (2.5 cm) of room around the edge of the pot.
Leaf drop is typically a sign of inadequate or excessive sunshine or, more commonly, dry soil.
Foxtail like filtered light. Regular watering is necessary, but avoid overwatering.
Water is stored in the plant’s large, tuberous roots, and wet soil can lead to root rot.
Retrim it back. To keep this fern bushy and compact, trim the stems.
To encourage new growth and to maintain the plant looking its best, remove old, fading fronds.
In the spring, repot. Change to a pot that is just 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) bigger.
Because the fleshy, tuberous roots can occasionally shove the potting mix up as they develop, leave at least 1 in (2.5 cm) of room around the edge of the pot.
Leaf drop is typically a sign of inadequate or excessive sunshine or, more commonly, dry soil.
Foxtail like filtered light. Regular watering is necessary, but avoid overwatering.
Water is stored in the plant’s large, tuberous roots, and wet soil can lead to root rot.
Is there a problem with your plant?
Spider mites may be attracted to indoor plants during the dry winter months.
They are scarcely noticed since they are so little.
They may be identified by the delicate webbing amid the leaves.
You may stop them by increasing the humidity surrounding your tropical plants.
Spider mite infestations should be treated right away since they quickly proliferate and spread to your other indoor plants.
Care Advice for Foxtail Ferns
Foxtail is stunning because to its feathery plumes.Origin: S. Africa
Height: Up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall
Light
Year-round bright indirect sunshine give the plant a quarter rotation to expose all sides to sunlight once a week or so for equal growth.
Water
Water thoroughly, allowing the soil to partially dry between applications.
Root rot can result from a water shortage.
When it comes to watering in the winter, be careful not to overwater.
If the soil dries up entirely, the foxtail fern may lose its leaflets.
When watering your indoor plants, don’t forget to use tepid water.
Humidity
favors humid air. Maintain a relative humidity of 40–50%.
Mist the leaves with room-temperature water and place the pot on a tray of moist stones.
In the winter, indoor air can get quite dry; if necessary, use a cool-mist room humidifier close to your plant.
Temperature
65-75°F/18-24°C is the typical room temperature. Foxtail fern can withstand temperatures as low as 50°F/10°C.
Keep this plant away from vents for the HVAC system.
Soil
All-purpose, premium potting mix for soil
Fertilizer
A balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 NPK, should be fed once a month from spring through fall.
Propagation
In the spring, divide overloaded plants.
To prevent tugging and injuring the plant’s thick roots, remove it from the pot and use a sharp knife to cut through them.
Try to save as much of the roots as you can.
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