• The staghorn fern belongs to the Polypodiaceae plant family and is a native tropical plant of the Philippines, Southeast Asia, Australia, Africa and America. In native environment, the fern generally grows on branches, tree trunks, or rocks. The growth is sustained with moisture provided to the root area by tropical rain. Among the special problems associated with the staghorn fern is the fact that these ferns cannot be grown in pots given their large size.
  
  

Special Growth Medium

• Staghorn fern has a epiphytic growth habit meaning that it uses a tree as its growing medium to grow. However it derives no nutrients from the tree but from the rain, air and the compost found on tree branches. The fern hence requires an organic growth medium like loose, well-drained potting soil to grow optimally. The best medium is either sphagnum moss by itself or mixed with other materials like tree fern fiber, bagasse and leaf mold.
  
  

Cold Intolerance

• The majority of staghorn fern varieties are considered semi-tender or tender and do not tolerate temperatures below 55 degrees. There are certain exceptions like P. bifurcatum which can tolerate a temperature of about 30 degrees. Staghorn fern is also sensitive to light conditions and grow best in shade or partial shade. If there is not enough light, the plant growth tends to slow and leads to the development of disease and insect infestation.
  
  

Fungal Disease

• Staghorn ferns are highly susceptible to a fungal disease caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia sp. This appears as black spots on the basal fronds. If left unattended the fungus spreads rapidly and can lead to plant death. The fungus is commonly caused by overwatering. When the black spots are first noticed, stop watering the fern and reduce the level of humidity around the fern as this will help to stunt fungal growth. Chemical control methods can also be used in cases of serious infestations. It is generally recommended to use non oil-based insecticides rather than oil-based compounds for staghorn ferns.