Overview of Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin
Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin, commonly known as deer fern, is a species belonging to the Blechnaceae family. The plant is native to Europe and North America and can be found in moist woods, crevices, and rocky areas.
General Appearance
The deer fern is a small, evergreen fern with a creeping growth habit, producing a densely growing cluster of fronds. The plant can reach up to 60 cm in height and has light green triangular fronds that are bipinnately divided into tiny leaflets. The leaflets are arranged alternately on the fronds and have pointed, toothed margins. The plant produces spores on the undersides of the fronds.
Common Names
Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin is commonly known as deer fern, hard fern, and little holly fern. The name deer fern is derived from the plant's preference for growing in the same habitat frequented by deer species. The name hard fern refers to the fern's hardy nature and ability to survive in harsh environments, while the name little holly fern derives from the resemblance of its leaves to those of holly plants.
Uses
Deer fern has both ornamental and medicinal uses. The plant is commonly grown as a decorative plant in shade gardens, rock gardens, and woodland gardens. The plant's fronds are also used in flower arrangements, adding a delicate and unique texture to arrangements. In traditional medicine, the plant's rhizome and leaves are used to treat various ailments such as burns, cuts, and bronchitis.
Deer fern also has ecological uses. The plant is utilized by wildlife species such as deer, elk, and mountain goats as forage, providing a rich source of nutrients during the winter months. Additionally, the plant's dense growth habit and creeping nature make it useful for erosion control and stabilizing soil in areas vulnerable to erosion.
Light requirements
Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin is an understory fern that is adapted to grow well under moderate shade to partial light conditions in the forest understory. The plant can grow in both direct and indirect sunlight, but prefers shaded areas with enough light reaching the forest floor.
Temperature requirements
Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can grow in areas with both high and low temperatures. However, the plant grows best in temperature ranges between 15°C to 25°C. Temperatures below 10°C will retard its growth, and temperatures above 30°C are detrimental to the plant's growth and development.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers a well-drained soil and can grow in various soil types like loamy soils, loamy sand, and peat soils. Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin can tolerate both low and high soil pH levels, ranging from 4.5 to 7.5. However, for optimal growth, the plant requires soils with a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and nutrients to ensure that the fern grows fast and has a stunning green color.
Cultivation Methods for Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin
Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin is a fern that is widely used in landscaping. If you are planning to grow this plant, you need to consider the following factors:
- Soil: The plant prefers acidic to slightly alkaline soil that is well-drained and fertile.
- Light: Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin thrives in a shady spot with indirect sunlight.
- Temperature: The plant requires cool environments but cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.
- Propagation: Propagation is by spores or division of the plants.
Watering Needs for Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin
Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin loves moisture and requires regular watering. When watering, you should ensure that the soil is kept moist but not overwatered. You can check the moisture level by inserting your finger into the soil to a depth of about an inch. If the soil feels dry, you should water the plant.
Fertilization for Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin
You can fertilize Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin once every two to three weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with a 1:1:1 ratio and water the plant with it according to the package instructions. The fertilizer will help the plant grow and maintain its health.
Pruning for Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin
You should remove any dead or discolored fronds from the plant. This will help to maintain its health and appearance. Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin does not require much pruning, so you should avoid cutting too deeply into the plant. You can use pruning shears to remove the fronds at the base of the stem.
Propagation of Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin
Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin, commonly known as Deer Fern, is a slow-growing evergreen fern that belongs to the family Blechnaceae. It is native to North America and can be found growing in moist forests, along stream banks, and in rocky crevices. Propagation of Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin can be done using two methods - spores and division of rhizomes.
Propagation by Spores
The process of propagating Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin by spores is time-consuming but rewarding. The spores are produced in small clusters on the underside of the fronds and can be collected when they turn brown. Spores need a high humidity environment to germinate, so it is recommended to use a propagator or seal the pot with a plastic bag until the spores have germinated.
To propagate Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin by spores, first, prepare a suitable growing medium consisting of equal amounts of perlite, peat moss, and sand. Sow the spores thinly over the surface of the growing medium and press them down gently. Cover the pot with a plastic bag and place it in a brightly lit area, but away from direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of between 18°C to 24°C. Germination can take up to two months.
Once the spores have germinated and the young ferns have reached a size of 2-3cm, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into a larger container for growing on. It can take up to two years for the ferns to reach maturity and produce fronds.
Propagation by Division of Rhizomes
Propagation of Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin by division of rhizomes is a faster method of propagation compared to spores. This method involves dividing the root ball of the parent plant into smaller sections, each with a viable rhizome and fronds.
To propagate Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin by division of rhizomes, first, prepare a suitable growing medium consisting of equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and sand. Dig up the parent plant and carefully divide the root ball into sections using a sharp, sterile knife. Plant each section into a pot filled with the prepared growing medium and water well. Place the pots in a brightly lit but sheltered position and keep the soil moist. New fronds should begin to appear within a few weeks, and the plant will continue to grow and establish over time.
Propagation of Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin can be achieved successfully using either the spore or division of rhizome method. The plants are slow-growing, so some patience is required, but the reward of having a beautiful Deer Fern is well worth the wait.
Disease Management
Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, it can sometimes fall prey to fungal infections like leaf spot and rust. To prevent such diseases, it is essential to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation around the plant. Remove fallen leaves and debris around the plant to prevent the growth and spread of fungi.
In case the plant is already infected, it is important to treat it with fungicides. Copper-based fungicides are effective against rust infections while chlorothalonil-based fungicides are suitable for leaf spot infections. Follow the instructions carefully while applying the fungicide to avoid any damage to the plant.
Also, make sure to water the plant at its base and avoid wetting its leaves. Wet leaves can encourage the growth of fungal infections.
Pest Management
Blechnum spicant (L.) Sm. var. elongatum (Hook.) Boivin can be affected by spider mites and scales. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the sap from the plant leaves, making them appear yellow or bronzed. Scales are small pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and suck its sap. This leads to the wilting of the plant.
To prevent these pests, it is essential to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation around the plant. Remove any dead leaves and debris around the plant to eliminate any potential breeding ground for pests. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation and take action immediately if found.
You can use insecticides like neem oil or pyrethrins to control infestations. Follow the instructions carefully while applying the insecticide and ensure that it does not harm any beneficial insects around the plant.
If the pest infestation is severe, it is recommended to consult a professional pest control service for effective control and management.
