Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L.
Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L. is a species of fern that belongs to the family Polypodiaceae and is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia. It is commonly known as common polypody or rock polypody due to its ability to grow on rocky surfaces.
Appearance
The common polypody plant has a creeping habit that allows it to grow up to 30 cm in height and 90 cm in width. It is evergreen and has deciduous leaves that are lance-shaped, leathery and shiny. The leaves are green and elongated with prominent mid-ribs and have a distinct and attractive texture that can add an interesting element to any garden. The plant produces spores on the underside of its leaves that are enclosed in small round sacs called sori.
Uses
Common polypody has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It is believed to be a powerful astringent and was historically used to treat wounds, skin irritations, and digestive issues. The plant also has potential as a natural remedy for bronchitis and respiratory infections. Additionally, polypody is a popular ornamental plant and is commonly cultivated in gardens and indoor spaces as a houseplant due to its unique texture and low maintenance requirements.
The common polypody plant has several other uses, including its use in the manufacturing of dyes, inks, and tans. The fronds of the plant were also used in the past to make brushes for painting and calligraphy. The plant's ability to grow on rocky surfaces makes it ideal for erosion control and it can also be used for landscaping purposes such as in rock gardens or as a border plant.
Light Requirements:
Polypodium vulgare requires moderate to bright indirect light. Direct and intense sunlight may damage the foliage. In its natural habitat, this plant is found growing under tree canopies, which filters sunlight providing the right amount of light for the plant to thrive.
Temperature Requirements:
Polypodium vulgare needs a cool and moist environment to grow. This plant prefers temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (16-24°C). It can tolerate slightly lower temperatures but may not survive in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements:
Polypodium vulgare grows well in well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5-7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention properties. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is an excellent choice for potting soil for this plant. Avoid using heavy clay soils as they can retain too much water, leading to root rot.
Cultivation methods for Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L.
Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L., also known as Common Polypody, is a fern that grows naturally in humid places and woodland areas. It is easy to grow provided that you create the ideal conditions for it to thrive. The plant can be propagated by either spores or division.
To propagate via division, take the plant out of its container or bed, divide the roots and plant it in appropriately-sized pots or on the ground. For spore propagation, place a mature frond face down on paper. The spores will fall out in a few days, and you can then sow them in a prepared potting mix.
Watering needs for Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L.
Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L. enjoys evenly moist soil at all times. However, it shouldn't be too waterlogged; drain off any excess water which accumulates in the container or bed. Water your polypody ferns moderately, enough to keep the soil moist, but not soaked. Increase watering during summers for optimal growth.
Fertilization for Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L.
Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L. requires minimal fertilizer. A small quantity of liquid fertilizer can be added every two weeks to the water during growth periods. However, don't overfeed your ferns; it can cause root burn, which can lead to root rot and death.
Pruning Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L.
Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L. does not require regular pruning. You may remove dead or damaged fronds to promote the growth of new fronds. Cutting off too many fronds of Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L. can limit and hinder its growth, so practice selective pruning.
With the correct light, water, and temperature, Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L. can thrive and make a beautiful addition to any garden or indoor space.
Propagation of Polypodium vulgare
Polypodium vulgare auct. p.p. non L., commonly known as common polypody or rock polypody, is a species of fern native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It is a hardy plant that can be propagated using various methods.
Propagation from spores
The most common method of propagating common polypody is from spores. The spores of common polypody are typically produced in the summer and can be collected from mature fronds by shaking them over a sheet of paper. The collected spores can be stored in a sealed container until they are ready to be used.
To propagate the fern from spores, the spores need to be sown on a sterilized soil mix. The soil mix should be kept moist and covered with clear plastic to maintain high humidity levels. The spores will germinate within a few weeks, and the young plants can be potted up once they have developed enough leaves.
Propagation from division
Another way to propagate common polypody is through division. This method involves separating an established fern into smaller sections and potting them up as individual plants. Division is typically done in early spring when new growth appears.
To divide the fern, gently remove it from its pot and carefully separate the rhizomes into smaller sections. Each section should have a few fronds and healthy roots. The divided ferns can be potted up in fresh soil mix and kept in a shaded area until they are established.
Propagation from rhizome cuttings
Common polypody can also be propagated using rhizome cuttings. This method involves taking a section of a mature rhizome and potting it up as a new plant.
To propagate from rhizome cuttings, carefully cut a section of the rhizome with a sharp knife and pot it up in fresh soil mix. Water the cutting regularly and keep it in a warm, humid area until it has developed new fronds and roots.
Disease Management
Polypodium vulgare is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to a few common diseases.
Root Rot: Over-watering or poorly draining soil can cause root rot in Polypodium vulgare. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-draining, and avoid over-watering the plant. If root rot has already set in, try to dry out the soil and cut away any decaying roots.
Leaf Spot: Fungal leaf spot can occur in damp and humid conditions. To prevent this, avoid over-watering the plant and ensure that it has good air circulation. If leaf spot has already affected the plant, remove any infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicidal spray.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that appears as orange pustules on the underside of the Polypodium vulgare fronds. Remove and discard any affected fronds and treat the plant with a fungicidal spray.
Pest Management
Polypodium vulgare is relatively pest-resistant, but a few common pests can attack the plant.
Aphids: Aphids are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. They usually appear on the underside of the fronds. Spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the aphids, or treat the plant with an insecticidal spray.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellow or brown spots on the leaves. They also produce fine webbing on the plant. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them, or treat the plant with an insecticidal spray.
Scale Insects: Scale insects appear as small, immobile bumps on the plant. They suck the sap from the plant, causing yellow spots and wilting. To control scale insects, remove them by hand or treat the plant with an insecticidal spray.
Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent and control diseases and pests in Polypodium vulgare. Maintaining a proper watering and feeding schedule can also help keep the plant healthy and resistant to pests and diseases.
