Origin
Lygodium japonicum (Thunb. ex Murr.) Sw., commonly known as Japanese climbing fern, is a species of fern native to China, Japan, and Korea. It has been introduced to several other countries, including the United States, where it is considered an invasive species.
Common Names
Aside from Japanese climbing fern, Lygodium japonicum is also known by several other common names such as Japanese fern, Japanese creeper, and five-fingered fern. These names pertain to its characteristic climbing habit and its hand-like fronds.
Uses
While it is considered an invasive species in some areas, Lygodium japonicum has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and diaphoretic effects. Its young fronds are also consumed as a vegetable in parts of Asia. In landscaping, the fern is sometimes cultivated as a decorative plant due to its unique appearance and climbing habits.
General Appearance
Lygodium japonicum is a climbing fern that can grow up to 9 m (30 ft) long. Its fronds are hand-shaped, with a central stalk and several pinnate leaflets that are about 10-30 cm (4-12 in) long. The fronds are light green in color and have a delicate, wispy appearance. The plant reproduces via spores and can spread rapidly through vegetative growth, forming dense mats that can outcompete native vegetation.
Light Requirements
Lygodium japonicum requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. Direct sunlight for long hours can cause the leaves to get sunburned and stunt the plant's growth. It is best to place the plant near a window with sheer curtains or in a shaded area with filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C. It prefers a warm and humid environment but can tolerate a cooler temperature for short periods. Avoid exposing the plant to drafts of cold air as it may harm the plant.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Lygodium japonicum should have good drainage but be able to hold moisture well. A soil mix that is a blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is suitable for this plant. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Water Requirements
Lygodium japonicum requires consistently moist soil. Avoid overwatering the plant, as sitting in water will cause the roots to rot. Water the plant only when the top 1-2 cm of soil is dry to the touch. Misting the leaves with water can help increase humidity around the plant, but avoid getting water on the fronds as it can promote fungal growth.
Fertilizer Requirements
A balanced fertilizer can be applied to Lygodium japonicum during its active growing season, which is typically in the spring and summer. It should be fertilized monthly with a dilute solution of complete water-soluble fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the plant's dormant period, as it can cause damage to the roots.
Cultivation of Lygodium japonicum
Lygodium japonicum is a climbing fern that can be grown indoors or outdoors. It is a relatively easy plant to grow but requires specific conditions to thrive.
The ideal location for Lygodium japonicum is a partially shaded to shaded area with high humidity, which can be achieved through regular misting over the leaves. The plant benefits from fresh air circulation but should be protected from cold drafts.
Watering Needs of Lygodium japonicum
Lygodium japonicum prefers moist soil but can also withstand short periods of drought. It is recommended to water the plant moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases, so it is essential to let the soil dry out between waterings and ensure good drainage.
Fertilization of Lygodium japonicum
Lygodium japonicum is a light feeder, and too much fertilizer can harm the plant. It is recommended to fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring to fall) using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
During the dormant season (winter), fertilization should be stopped or reduced to every two months.
Pruning of Lygodium japonicum
Pruning is not necessary for Lygodium japonicum, but it can help to promote bushier growth and maintain size. The plant can be trimmed to remove dead or damaged fronds and to control its size if it becomes too large.
It is recommended to use sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases, and pruning should be done during the growing season to allow new growth to emerge.
Propagation of Lygodium japonicum
Lygodium japonicum (Thunb. ex Murr.) Sw., also known as Japanese climbing fern, is a deciduous fern that can reach up to 20 feet in length. Propagation of L. japonicum can be done through spores or vegetatively through rhizome division.
Propagation by Spores
To propagate L. japonicum by spores, collect mature sporangia during the summer when the fronds are fertile. Place the sporangia in a small paper bag and store in a dry area until they release the spores. Sow the spores on a germination medium such as a mix of peat moss and perlite and spread them evenly on the surface. Cover the container with plastic wrap to maintain humidity and place it in a bright location without direct sun exposure. Keep the soil moist and wait for the spores to germinate, which may take several weeks. Once the young plants have a few fronds, they can be transplanted to a larger container or planted in the ground.
Propagation by Rhizome division
To propagate L. japonicum vegetatively, divide an established plant's rhizomes during the spring or fall. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the healthy rhizomes from the dead or diseased ones. Cut the rhizomes into sections that each have at least a few fronds and roots. Transplant the sections into a pre-dug hole in a well-draining soil mixture. Water the newly transplanted sections regularly until they establish new roots and begin to show new growth.
Disease Management for Lygodium japonicum
Lygodium japonicum is a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, it is not immune to all diseases and can be affected by infections such as fungal diseases. To manage disease outbreak, it is important to ensure that the plant is grown in healthy and well-draining soil that supports its growth. Avoid over-watering the plant, as it can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. Regular pruning of the plant helps to prevent the spread of diseases.
Common Diseases of Lygodium japonicum
One of the most common diseases that affect Lygodium japonicum is rust. Rust appears as yellowish-orange spots on the foliage of the plant. This disease is caused by fungal spores that are carried by the wind. To manage rust, it is important to remove the affected leaves and dispose of them far from the plant. Spraying the plant with fungicides may also help to control the spread of the disease.
Another disease that affects Lygodium japonicum is powdery mildew. This disease appears as a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. Powdery mildew is caused by fungal spores that thrive in conditions of high humidity and poor air circulation. To control powdery mildew, it is important to avoid over-watering the plant and to increase air circulation around the plant by pruning it regularly.
Pest Management for Lygodium japonicum
Lygodium japonicum is also susceptible to pest infestation, particularly by spider mites and scale insects. To manage pest infestation, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. Yellowing leaves, distorted growth, and the presence of webbing are all signs of spider mites. To control spider mites, you can wash the plant regularly with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap. Scale insects are characterized by small brown bumps on the plant. To control scale insects, scrape off the scale with a soft-bristled brush or apply insecticidal oil.
