Origin
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. caudatum (L.) Bonap. is a species of fern that is native to regions of Europe, Asia, North America, and South America.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as the bracken fern, eagle fern, or brake.
Appearance
The fronds of Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. caudatum (L.) Bonap. are large and triangular, reaching heights of up to 3 feet tall. The fronds are typically green in color and have a unique leaf structure referred to as pinnate with bipinnatifid.
Uses
Historically, the fronds of the bracken fern have been used for a variety of purposes. Indigenous peoples of North America, for example, often used the plant for food, medicine, and basket weaving. In modern times, however, the plant's primary use is ornamental as it can add an attractive touch to gardens and landscapes. It is worth noting, however, that while the bracken fern is not technically poisonous, it does contain toxic substances that can be harmful to both humans and animals when ingested in substantial quantities.
Light Requirements
Pteridium aquilinum ssp. caudatum typically grows in areas that receive full to partial sunlight. However, it can also tolerate some shading.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is adaptable to different temperature ranges, but tends to thrive in areas with a temperate climate. The ideal temperature range for Pteridium aquilinum ssp. caudatum growth is between 15-25°C. It can also survive in colder regions with temperatures as low as -5°C.
Soil Requirements
Pteridium aquilinum ssp. caudatum prefers well-drained soils, with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it grows best in nutrient-rich, fertile soil. Heavy metal contamination in the soil can negatively affect the growth of this plant species.
Cultivation methods:
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. caudatum (L.) Bonap. is a robust, perennial fern that thrives in a wide range of soils, from sandy to clayey soils. It prefers slightly acidic soils that are rich in organic matter. This plant loves full or partial sunlight, and it grows best in areas with high humidity and rainfall, though it can tolerate dry spells.
This plant tends to spread quickly and easily through underground rhizomes, so it's recommended to contain it in a container or a raised bed. The planting depth should be equal to the depth of the container or rhizome, and the holes should be dug wide enough to accommodate the full width of the container or rhizome.
Watering needs:
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. caudatum (L.) Bonap. requires consistent moisture, especially during the hottest months. It's important to keep the soil around the plant damp, but not waterlogged. The fern prefers frequent misting, and spraying the fronds with a light mist of water can help keep it healthy and vibrant.
Fertilization:
When it comes to fertilizing Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. caudatum (L.) Bonap., less is more. The plant is quite hardy, and too much fertilizer can harm it. Applying a slow-release, all-purpose fertilizer once or twice a year is sufficient.
Pruning:
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. caudatum (L.) Bonap. doesn't require pruning in the traditional sense. However, removing any dead or brown fronds can help keep the plant looking tidy. Additionally, if the fern begins to outgrow its space, you can divide it by cutting the rhizomes into smaller sections and replanting them.
Propagation of Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. caudatum (L.) Bonap.
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. caudatum (L.) Bonap., commonly known as bracken fern, can be propagated in a few different ways.
Spores
The most common method of propagating bracken fern is through spores. Spores are collected from mature fronds, which are those that have turned brown and dried out. Collect spores by shaking the fronds over a piece of paper or newsprint. Carefully pour the spores into a container, and store in a cool, dry place until needed.
To propagate from spores, sow the spores on a sterile medium such as peat moss in a flat container or petri dish. Cover with plastic wrap or a clear cover to maintain humidity. Place in a warm, shady location until germination occurs, which may take up to several weeks. Once ferns have established, transplant to individual pots until they are large enough to be planted outdoors.
Division
Another method of propagating bracken fern is through division. Mature ferns can be divided in early spring or fall, when they are dormant. Carefully cut the rhizomes into sections, ensuring each section has several fronds and roots. Plant each section in a pot or directly into the soil, and keep well-watered until established.
Vegetative propagation
Bracken fern can also be propagated through vegetative propagation. The easiest method is to propagate by stolons, which are horizontal stems that grow along the soil surface. When the stolons make contact with soil, they will take root and quickly develop into new ferns. Dig up the new ferns and replant them in a location with well-draining soil and partial shade.
Overall, bracken fern is easy to propagate from spores, division, or vegetative propagation, but it is highly invasive and can quickly spread through underground rhizomes. Care should be taken to plant it in a contained area to prevent its spread into native habitats and other areas where it may become a nuisance.
Disease Management
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. caudatum (L.) Bonap. commonly suffer from fungal infection causing brown spots on leaves which later turn yellow and fall. These fungal infections are majorly caused by the Botrytis and Aspergillus species. Fungal infection can be managed by the destruction of infected plants, as well as practicing proper plant care and maintenance, such as trimming and avoiding over-watering which leads to high humidity.
In case of severe infection, the application of pesticides can be effective. Fungicides such as Mancozeb and Chlorothalonil can be sprayed on the plants to control the fungal spread. However, it is important to use fungicides as directed by the manufacturer with necessary safety gear.
Pest Management
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. caudatum (L.) Bonap. is also commonly attacked by pests such as leaf miners, scale insects, and mites. These pests cause physical damage to the plant causing reduced growth and eventual death.
To manage pests, the application of insecticides is effective. Use insecticides such as Imidacloprid and Acephate to manage pests. However, just as with fungicides, it is important to use insecticides responsibly and carefully follow the directions given on the label. Additionally, biological control measures such as releasing predators like ladybugs can help manage pests without the use of chemical insecticides.
Sanitation is also important for pest management, it can be done by removing infected and fallen leaves, and disposing of them properly. Additionally, keep an eye on the plant and remove infested parts as soon as they are detected to prevent the spread of pests.
