Staghorn fern care

Platycerium bifurcatum needs bright light with no direct sun. Check the soil before you water.

This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.

Care at a glance

Botanical name: Platycerium bifurcatum
Other names: Elkhorn fern
Light: Bright light, no direct sun. Put it in bright, indirect light. Keep it out of hot midday sun.
Soil check: Every 5 to 10 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
Humidity: Medium humidity
Feeding: Feed once a month in spring and summer. Do not feed in winter.

How does the soil feel 2 to 3 cm below the top?

Push a finger 2 to 3 cm into the soil. Feel if it is dry, damp or wet.

Dry: no soil sticks to your finger. Water the plant.
Damp: a little soil sticks to your finger. It feels cool. Do not water yet.
Wet: soil sticks to your finger and feels soggy, or you see water. Do not water. Check the drainage.

Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.

Mount it on a board with wet sphagnum moss. Or use a basket with orchid bark and moss.

Soak the moss under the plant in water when it feels dry. Let it drain well.
The brown, flat shield fronds at the base are normal. Do not cut them off.
The soft white fuzz on the leaves is normal. Do not wipe it off.
Black, soft spots in the center mean too much water. Water less and give more air.

We do not know if this plant is safe for pets. Keep it away from pets and children.