Monarch fern

Description

Monarch Fern (Phymatosorus scolopendria) – Growing Conditions

Light Requirements:
Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate moderate shade. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which may scorch the fronds.

Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil begins to dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months.

Humidity:
Thrives in high humidity environments. Ideal for tropical or indoor settings. Mist regularly or place near a humidifier if the air is dry.

Temperature:
Best grown in temperatures between 16°C – 28°C (60°F – 82°F). Not frost-tolerant; protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

Soil:
Use a well-draining, rich organic mix. A blend of peat, pine bark, and perlite works well.

Fertilizer:
Feed monthly during the growing season (spring through summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Maintenance:
Remove dead or yellowing fronds to encourage new growth. Can be trimmed lightly to maintain shape.

Growth Habit:
Spreads via underground rhizomes. Can be grown in pots, hanging baskets, or as ground cover in shady garden beds.