Propagation
Place spores on sterilised sphagnum or peat moss then cover with glass, keep moist for 4 to 6 weeks maintaining a temperature of 16ş C (61ş F), with indirect light until the prothallus appears.

Divide rhizomes in to lengths during spring and seal wounds to prevent fungal infection. Plant upwards in well drained moist soil, apply bottom heat.
Cleanliness is essential during the process.


Botanic information
Leaf: The glossy dark green leathery textured lanceolate fronds are up to 450 mm (18 in) long by 76 mm (3 in) wide with undulating entire margins and an acute apex. The slender stipe is up to 120mm (4ľ in) and the base is cordate. They are upright and spreading from the base forming a shuttlecock-like appearance.

Flower: The glossy dark green leathery textured lanceolate fronds are up to 450 mm (18 in) long by 76 mm (3 in) wide with undulating entire margins and an acute apex. The slender stipe is up to 120mm (4ľ in) and the base is cordate. They are upright and spreading from the base forming a shuttlecock-like appearance.

Fruit: The spores are produced in the sporangium during the sporophyte stage of the fern life cycle in rows on the back of the fertile frond. The spores are very small (like fine dust) and are released from the sori when mature and dispersed by wind or water.

FERNS
General cultural requirements for ferns
Temperature
The ideal temperature required for ferns ranges from 15.5ş to 22ş C (60ş to 70şF); above and below these temperatures the ferns tend to suffer.

Light
Naturally a fern receive bright dappled light and for successful growth around a home bright indirect light is preferred. Ferns do poorly if grown in deep shade.

Water
Ferns require constantly moist, well drained soils but not wet or waterlogged as this promotes rot. They prefer the water to pass by the roots regularly then drain away.

Humidity
Ferns need a humid environment and do poorly in dry air. Humidity may be maintained for potted plants by regular misting of the fronds or by placing the container above a saucer filled with water. In the outdoors maintain moist soils or in hot weather spray the area with a garden hose for a short period regularly.

Re-potting
Re-pot ferns when the roots have filled the container preferable during spring and use a well drained loam based soil mix with added leaf mould. When planting, be careful not to cover the crown of the plant.
When fertilising, ferns prefer a little and regular fertiliser this will improve pale fronds and weak growth.

Soil
Generally ferns prefer a heaver soil type with ample organic matter. Sandy soils require regular mulching and heavy clay soils require the addition of gypsum and organic matter in conduction with cultivation to make it more friable. They will tolerate most soil types including granite or basalt based and some species are found in limestone base soils but generally they prefer a acidic pH. All require organic material and moisture.