Asparagus fern Asparagus setaceus

Water

The lace fern should be watered thoroughly, enough to soak the soil evenly, every time the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. On average, this can be approximately every 5 to 7 days, but this frequency may need to be adjusted depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment. It's important not to overwater, as the roots are prone to rot in soggy soil. When watering, it is best to use around 16 to 32 ounces of water for a standard indoor pot size, ensuring that excess water can drain freely from the bottom.

Light

The lace fern thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate a bit of direct morning sunlight. It's best to place it in an east or north-facing window where it gets plenty of light but is shielded from the harsh midday sun. Avoid the intense afternoon sunlight coming from south and west-facing windows which can scorch the delicate foliage.

Temperature

The lace fern prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, slightly cooler at night, but not below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It should be kept away from cold drafts and heating sources that could cause sudden temperature changes. The plant is not frost-tolerant and can be damaged by temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

The lace fern requires occasional pruning to remove dead or yellowing fronds, which also helps to maintain the plant's shape and encourages healthy growth. It's best to prune in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Use clean, sharp scissors to snip off unwanted fronds at the base, taking care not to damage the main stem or nearby healthy growth. Pruning can be performed every few months or as needed when you observe dead or discolored fronds.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Lace Fern thrives in well-draining, airy soil with a pH of around 6.5-7.5. A mix of two parts peat, one part loam, and one part perlite or sand is ideal, which ensures good drainage and aeration. Regularly adding organic matter can help keep the soil conditions optimal for this delicate fern.

Repotting

Lace Ferns should be repotted every couple of years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. They're fast-growers and may need to be repotted more frequently if they become root-bound or the soil becomes compacted, typically in the spring or early summer.

Humidity & Misting

Lace Ferns prefer a high humidity environment, around 60-70%. They thrive in moist air, so maintaining these humidity levels, especially in dry indoor conditions, can be achieved with regular misting or using a pebble tray with water under the pot.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow Lace Fern in indirect light, keep soil moist, and maintain high humidity.

• Outdoor

  Plant Lace Fern in dappled shade, ensure soil drains well and mist regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Asparagus setaceus, commonly known as lace fern or asparagus fern, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in moist soil conditions with adequate warmth. After germination, seedlings emerge with their first set of true leaves, and the root system starts to establish. As the plant matures, it develops feathery, fern-like foliage that can grow quite long and start to vine; this foliage stage is primarily vegetative growth. Upon reaching maturity, asparagus ferns produce small, inconspicuous white flowers, often unnoticed due to their size and the density of the foliage. Following flowering, if pollination occurs, the plant produces small berries that turn from green to red as they mature, containing seeds that can disperse to begin new plants. Throughout its life, asparagus ferns may also spread vegetatively through their tuberous roots, creating a dense network of growth over time.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Asparagus fern, commonly known as Asparagus setaceus, is often propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this plant. Division should ideally be done in the spring when the plant is beginning to grow actively. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and use a sharp knife to divide the root ball into sections, making sure each section has plenty of roots and at least one or two growing points or stems. Then, replant each division in a separate pot filled with a well-draining potting mix, water thoroughly, and place it in a warm, well-lit area without direct sunlight. It's important to maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging the soil. New growth usually indicates that the division has been successful, and the plant can continue to be cared for as usual.