Species Description:
Struthiopteris spicant (L.) Weiss, commonly known as deer fern, is a perennial fern species native to the temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.
Common Names:
The plant is also known by a variety of common names including, buckler fern, male fern, and hard shield fern.
Plant Uses:
Deer fern has a variety of uses. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat various ailments such as rheumatism, bronchitis, and sore throats. The plant has also been used in the manufacturing of cosmetic products due to its antioxidant and skin-soothing effects. Additionally, it is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping.
Plant Appearance:
Struthiopteris spicant is a medium-sized fern that can grow up to 60 cm tall, with long, erect fronds that arise from a central point and grow in a circular manner. The fronds are typically a glossy green color, but they can also take on a copper or rust tone during the winter. The leaves are small and fan-shaped with a distinct jagged edge, which gives the plant its common name of buckler fern.
Growth Conditions for Struthiopteris Spicant (L.) Weiss
Light: Struthiopteris spicant thrives in partial to full shade. Plants growing in full sun may require more moisture and can survive if grown in wet soils.
Temperature: This fern species prefers cool and moist conditions. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius and as high as 25 degrees Celsius, though it does not prefer such extremes. In the winter, Struthiopteris spicant will lose some of its fronds, but they will regrow in the spring.
Soil: Struthiopteris spicant is highly adaptable to a wide range of soils. However, it thrives in well-draining soils that are consistently moist. This fern prefers soils with a humus-rich top layer and a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 5.0 and 7.0).
If planting Struthiopteris spicant outdoors, it is best to amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve moisture retention and soil nutrients. Mulching around the base of the fern with organic matter can also help to maintain moisture levels throughout the growing season.
Water: Although Struthiopteris spicant requires consistently moist soil, it does not tolerate standing water. Overwatering can lead to root rot and may damage the plant. It is important to provide adequate drainage and to water the fern regularly, especially during periods of drought or high temperatures.
Fertilizer: Struthiopteris spicant does not require much fertilizer. However, a light application of a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can promote healthy growth. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth, which can make the plant more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Cultivation Methods
The Struthiopteris spicant plant requires light shade to full shade to thrive. It grows well in moist and well-drained soils, preferring those that are rich in organic matter. The best time to plant it is in spring, although it can also be planted in fall.
Watering Needs
The Struthiopteris spicant plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the summer months, it may require more frequent watering to prevent the soil from drying out. It is important to water the plant at the base, avoiding getting the foliage wet to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The Struthiopteris spicant plant responds well to organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, applied in spring and fall. Alternatively, a balanced fertilizer containing equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Struthiopteris spicant plant does not require regular pruning. However, it is advisable to remove any wilted or yellowing fronds to keep the plant looking neat and healthy. A thorough pruning is recommended in spring to remove any damaged or dead fronds, making way for new growth.
Propagation of Struthiopteris spicant (L.) Weiss
Struthiopteris spicant (L.) Weiss, also known as the Deer Fern, is a beautiful ornamental plant that can be propagated in several ways, including spores, division, and tissue culture.
Propagation by Spores
Propagation by spores is the most common and easiest way to propagate Struthiopteris spicant. Spores are small, dust-like particles produced by the fern's fertile fronds. These spores can be collected from the mature fronds, placed on a growing medium, and kept moist until new ferns are produced.
The most important aspect of spore propagation is the sterilization of all equipment and the growing medium. Careful attention should be paid to the timing of spore collection, as well as the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the spores are grown.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is an effective method for Struthiopteris spicant, as it allows quick propagation of large clumps of ferns. This method involves separating the fern rhizomes into smaller pieces with a sharp, sterile knife. Each division should have at least one growing point and a portion of the healthy roots.
The divided ferns can be replanted immediately or potted and watered frequently until new growth appears. Division is best done in the spring, just as new growth begins to emerge.
Propagation by Tissue Culture
Tissue culture involves taking a small piece of the fern, often from the meristem tissue, and placing it in a nutrient-rich, sterile environment. The cells in the tissue will develop into healthy, new plants over time.
Tissue culture is a more complex and expensive propagation method, but it is useful for creating large numbers of identical plants, such as for commercial production. This method is often used for rare or endangered fern species or to produce new cultivars.
Overall, Struthiopteris spicant is a relatively easy fern to propagate using spores or division. Tissue culture is a more advanced technique that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. With patience and proper care, propagating Struthiopteris spicant can be a rewarding experience for any fern enthusiast.
Disease Management for Struthiopteris spicant (L.) Weiss
Struthiopteris spicant (L.) Weiss, also known as the deer fern, is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its overall growth and appearance. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect this plant:
1. Leaf Blight
Leaf blight is a common fungal disease that affects ferns, including Struthiopteris spicant. The symptoms include yellowing or browning of the leaves, which eventually turn brown and die. To manage this disease, it's important to remove and destroy infected leaves. You can also apply a fungicide recommended for ferns to prevent further spread of the disease.
2. Rhizome Rot
Rhizome rot is a serious disease that affects the roots and rhizomes of Struthiopteris spicant. The symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth of the plant. The disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and can be managed by removing and destroying infected plants. Avoid overhead watering of the plants, as this can promote fungal growth. It's also a good idea to apply a fungicide recommended for ferns to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Struthiopteris spicant (L.) Weiss
Struthiopteris spicant (L.) Weiss is also susceptible to several pests that can affect its overall health and appearance. Here are some of the common pests that might affect this plant:
1. Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of ferns, including Struthiopteris spicant. The symptoms include yellowing, curling, and stunted growth of the plant. To manage an aphid infestation, you can spray the plant with a soap and water solution or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, to control the population of aphids.
2. Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of ferns, including Struthiopteris spicant. The symptoms include yellowing, wilting, and premature leaf drop. To manage a scale insect infestation, you can remove the pests by hand or with a soft brush. You can also apply a horticultural oil or insecticide recommended for ferns to control the population of scale insects.
