Overview
Polypodium vulgare L. var. intermedium (Hook. & Arn.) Fern. is a species of fern native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is commonly known as the common polypody, rock polypody, or common rock fern. It is a member of the Polypodiaceae family and is a perennial plant that grows in rocky areas, crevices, and on cliffs.
Description
The common polypody plant has a distinctive appearance with thin, wiry stems that grow up to 50 cm in length. The fronds are arranged in a rosette formation and are pinnately lobed with elongated leaflets. The leaves are leathery and remain green during the winter months. The plant has a rhizomatous root system, which allows it to spread quickly in the right environment.
Uses
Polypodium vulgare L. var. intermedium (Hook. & Arn.) Fern. has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It was believed to have therapeutic properties for treating wounds and respiratory diseases. The plant has also been used in the textile industry for dyeing fabric. Today, the plant is mostly used for ornamental purposes and is commonly used in rock gardens or as a ground cover. It is easy to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice for gardeners.
Light Requirements
Polypodium vulgare L. var. intermedium (Hook. & Arn.) Fern. requires moderate to bright indirect light for optimal growth. It can tolerate some direct sun exposure early in the morning or late in the afternoon, but intense sunlight can burn its fronds. In their natural habitat, these ferns grow in the understory of forests, receiving filtered sunlight through the trees.
Temperature Requirements
This fern species prefers cool to mild temperatures ranging from 15 to 24°C (59 to 75°F). Temperatures above 27°C (80°F) can be detrimental to its growth and survival. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F) during the winter dormant season but can die if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Polypodium vulgare L. var. intermedium (Hook. & Arn.) Fern. grows best in well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH for their growth ranges from 5.5 to 6.5. They can also grow in rocky soil or on the sides of trees and rocks. These ferns prefer soil that retains some moisture but not waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot.
Cultivation
Polypodium vulgare L. var. intermedium (Hook. & Arn.) Fern, commonly known as the intermediate polypody fern, can be cultivated in both indoor and outdoor locations. The plant prefers a shady and moist environment with well-draining, humus-rich soil.
If cultivating the fern indoors, ensure it is placed away from direct sunlight and in a spot with humidity. The plant can also be grown in a hanging basket to allow the fronds to drape over the edge.
When planting the fern outdoors, select a location with partial shade and preferably under trees. Plant the fern in a hole just slightly larger than its container and ensure that the soil is kept moist.
Watering needs
The intermediate polypody fern requires consistent watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In indoor settings, adjust the frequency of watering according to the temperature and humidity of the environment. To determine if the fern needs watering, stick a finger into the soil to a depth of an inch. If the soil feels dry, water the plant.
It is best to water the fern in the morning to allow enough time for the soil to dry out before the temperature drops in the evening. Avoid getting water on the fronds when watering the plant as it can encourage the growth of fungus.
Fertilization
To ensure the healthy growth of the intermediate polypody fern, fertilize the soil with a balanced and organic fertilizer every month or two during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the dormant period.
If the plant is grown indoors, the frequency of feeding can be decreased, especially during the winter months when growth slows down. Refrain from using chemical fertilizers as they can damage the plant and soil in the long run.
Pruning
Pruning of the intermediate polypody fern should be done primarily for aesthetic reasons or to improve the health of the plant. Prune fronds that are yellowing or have dried out tips.
Trim back any fronds that have discolored or browned to the base to encourage new growth. Use sharp and sterile scissors or pruning shears to protect the fern from diseases.
It is also essential to remove any debris or dead fronds on the soil surface as they can promote the growth of fungal infections or harm the plant.
Propagation of Polypodium vulgare L. var. intermedium (Hook. & Arn.) Fern
Polypodium vulgare L. var. intermedium (Hook. & Arn.) Fern. can be propagated both by spores and vegetatively.
Propagation by spores
Propagation by spores is the most commonly used method for Polypodium vulgare L. var. intermedium (Hook. & Arn.) Fern. The spore propagation begins with the collection of spores from a mature fern. The spores are collected in a container and sown on a sterile, well-draining soil mixture. The container is then covered with plastic wrap to maintain high humidity levels.
It takes several weeks for the spores to germinate, and the resulting young ferns are referred to as gametophytes. Once the gametophytes are well established, they can be transferred to individual pots with a suitable soil mix to continue their growth.
Propagation vegetatively
Propagation of Polypodium vulgare L. var. intermedium (Hook. & Arn.) Fern. can also be done vegetatively. The most common method is by dividing the plant. This process involves separating the rhizomes or the underground stems of the fern and dividing them into smaller sections, each with a few fronds and a portion of the rhizome.
The divided sections are replanted in a suitable potting mix and placed in a shaded location. Regular watering and maintenance are required until the fern is well established.
Another vegetative propagation method for Polypodium vulgare L. var. intermedium (Hook. & Arn.) Fern. is through tissue culture. This process involves the cultivation of small sections of tissue from the fern in a sterile laboratory environment.
The resulting plantlets are then transplanted into individual pots filled with a suitable potting mix and placed in a shaded area.
Propagation through vegetative methods ensures that the resulting plants are genetically identical to the original plant, which is advantageous when desirable characteristics need to be maintained.
Disease Management
Polypodium vulgare is susceptible to various fungal diseases, including leaf spot, blight, and rust.
Leaf Spot: This disease appears as small, dark spots on leaves and can cause them to yellow and eventually drop. To manage leaf spot, it is best to avoid overhead watering and provide adequate ventilation to help leaves dry quickly. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed.
Blight: Blight causes brownish-black spots on fronds and can eventually kill the entire plant. To manage blight, avoid wetting the foliage when watering, remove infected fronds, and apply a fungicide to the plant.
Rust: Rust appears as rust-colored spots on the fronds and can also cause them to yellow and drop. To manage rust, remove infected leaves, and apply a fungicide to the plant.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect Polypodium vulgare, including spider mites and scale insects.
Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to detect with the naked eye. They cause leaves to yellow and eventually drop. Infested plants should be isolated, and regular spraying with water can help control the mites. In severe cases, an insecticide may be necessary.
Scale Insects: These pests appear as small, raised bumps on the fronds and can secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants. To manage scale insects, they can be gently scrubbed off with a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. In severe cases, an insecticide may be necessary.
