Origin and Common Names
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. lanuginosum (Bong.) Hultén, commonly known as bracken fern, is a species of fern that is native to most parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and North and South America. It has several common names including bracken, brake, and fern brake.Uses
While it is primarily known as a wild plant and considered a nuisance by many people due to its invasive nature, bracken fern is also valued for its uses. Historically, bracken was used as a thatching material for roofs and walls of houses in some regions of the world. It was also used as a source of fiber for making baskets, mats, and paper. In some parts of the world, the starchy rhizomes of bracken are also used as a food source by humans and some animals.General Appearance
Bracken fern is a perennial plant that grows up to 2 meters tall. It has long, triangular fronds that arise from an underground rhizome. The fronds are pinnate and divide into many small leaflets that are thin and delicate. The plant is green in color and has a distinctive appearance due to its fronds, which can reach up to 1 meter in length. The fronds of bracken fern are deciduous and die back in the winter, leaving only the persistent rhizome. Bracken fern is often found in disturbed areas such as clearings, forestry, and agricultural land, as well as in deciduous and coniferous forests.Light Requirements
Pteridium aquilinum ssp. lanuginosum is a plant that thrives in partially shaded to fully shaded areas. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods as it can cause the leaves to wilt or suffer from sunburn.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can withstand varying temperatures, but it tends to prefer a cooler climate over warmer ones. It can survive in temperatures as low as -30°C (-22°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F). In general, the plant grows best in temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F).
Soil Requirements
Pteridium aquilinum ssp. lanuginosum is highly adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. However, it prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. Soil pH levels should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from pH 5.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation methods
Pteridium aquilinum ssp. lanuginosum, commonly known as Bracken Fern, is a beautiful plant that can be grown in a variety of soil types. It prefers moist soil that is moderately acidic and well-draining. It can tolerate partial shade to full sun and can grow up to six feet tall if given enough space.
The best time to plant this fern is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed. To plant, dig a hole twice the diameter of the plant's rootball and set the plant in the hole so the crown is level with the soil surface. Fill in the hole with soil, then water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Watering needs
Bracken Fern likes to be kept moist but doesn't like standing water. Check the soil's moisture level regularly and water when the top inch of soil is dry. During hot, dry weather, you may need to water every other day. During cooler weather, water once a week. Avoid watering late in the day as this can encourage fungal growth.
Fertilization
Fertilize Bracken Fern in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 12-12-12. Follow the package directions for application rates. After fertilizing, water the plant deeply to help dissolve the fertilizer and carry it down to the roots. Avoid fertilizing after midsummer to avoid encouraging new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Pruning
Prune Bracken Fern in the early spring before new growth appears. Cut back any dead or damaged fronds to the ground with a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Leave the healthy fronds in place. Once new growth appears, you can remove any fronds that are blocking light or overcrowding the plant.
Propagation of Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. lanuginosum (Bong.) Hultén
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. lanuginosum (Bong.) Hultén can be propagated both sexually and asexually. The different propagation methods are:
Sexual Propagation
The plant reproduces sexually through spores. Spores are located on the underside of the fronds and are released when they mature. To propagate the plant through spores, collect mature fronds and place them over a sheet of paper. Allow the spores to drop onto the paper, which should be kept in a dry place for a few days before sowing the spores.
Asexual Propagation
The plant can also be propagated asexually through rhizomes. The underground stems of the plant can be divided into sections and planted to grow new plants. When the rhizomes are harvested, it is important to cut them into small sections with at least one bud of the plant on each piece. The sections should be planted immediately after being cut to avoid drying out and contamination. Rhizome sections can be planted directly into the soil or started in pots until the plants grow to a size that makes them suitable for transplanting.
Disease Management
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. lanuginosum (Bong.) Hultén is susceptible to a variety of diseases that can affect its growth and quality. Some of the common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular spots on the leaves. It can be managed by removing and destroying infected leaves, avoiding overhead watering and practicing good sanitation measures.
- Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth and wilting. It can be managed by planting in well-drained soil, avoiding overwatering and improving soil structure.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be managed by removing and destroying infected leaves, ensuring good air circulation, and avoiding overhead watering.
- Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes orange-red pustules on the leaves. It can be managed by removing and destroying infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
- Downy Mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown patches on the leaves. It can be managed by removing and destroying infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management
The Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn ssp. lanuginosum (Bong.) Hultén can also be affected by pests such as:
- Aphids: These are sap-sucking insects that cause wilting and stunted growth. They can be managed by washing them off with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These are larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves. They can be managed by handpicking and removing them or using biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
- Snails and Slugs: These are mollusks that feed on the leaves and stems. They can be managed by using baits containing iron phosphate or by handpicking and removing them.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny insects that feed on the leaves, causing yellowing and bronzing. They can be managed by washing them off with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These are tiny insects that cause curling and distortion of the leaves. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
