Pteris (Pteris) is clearly related to ferns. In nature, there are about 250 different species. The climatic habitat of the plant is located in the tropics and subtropics in the United States, New Zealand and Tasmania. Natural plantings of ferns are also found on the Japanese islands.
The plant is characterized by refined green or variegated leaves. There are both short and tall species. At home, only a few types of pteris take root, many of which are unpretentious to care. The only rule for breeding ferns is to maintain high humidity indoors. According to flower growers, pteris pots should be placed next to other moisture-loving plants.
Observing a regular watering regime, growing a plant at home will not cause any problems. The fern will look healthy and full of energy.
Caring for pteris at home
Location and lighting
Vases with a flower are advised to keep away from direct sunlight, but the lack of lighting also negatively affects the development of pteris. A semi-shaded corner is suitable, where light will reach during the daytime. Placing the fern in the shade will lead to a loss of decorative foliage.
Temperature
In the summer, the optimum air regime should be between 20-22 ° C. In winter, the root system of green indoor plants can withstand a drop in the thermometer to 10 ° C, and variegated species become sick if the temperature drops below 16 ° C. Drafts are contraindicated in a flower.
Humidity level
The plant prefers high humidity. It is recommended to constantly spray the leaves with water at room temperature.
Watering mode
The water is pre-defended. When the weather is warm and dry outside, you need abundant watering, and in the cold season, much less moisture is added. Overflowing the soil threatens the formation of rot in the root zone. A tray is placed under the pot, where excess liquid will drain. The substrate must be kept slightly moist.
Top dressing and fertilizers
Top dressing is applied from May to August. The soil is fertilized every two weeks using liquid complex compositions intended for feeding decorative deciduous houseplants.
The soil
The fern is planted in soil mixed from leafy, turfy land, peat and humus. The components are added in equal proportions. To improve the drainage properties of the substrate, add a little sand.
Transfer
Plants are transplanted in the spring and only if necessary, when the roots are already sorely lacking in space in the pot. The optimal environment is considered to be slightly acidic or neutral soil.
Reproduction of pteris
For reproduction of pteris, dried spores or cuttings obtained as a result of transplantation are used.
Diseases and pests
On the leaves of the fern, scabies, aphids and mealybugs occasionally settle. The fronds are very delicate and easily damaged by the slightest touch, therefore, the flower should be handled with care.
Types of pteris with a photo
Pteris Cretan (Pteris cretica)
The first most popular species, which has beautiful feathery leaves with dissected edges. The length of vai in adult shrubs reaches 0.5 m. Each leaf has 2-6 segments. Wild species of Cretan pteris grow in the forest belt, along the coast or at the foot of the rocks. At the moment, various forms of this culture have been bred.
Pteris longifolia (Pteris longifolia)
The rich foliage of a dark shade with a feathery structure is the main difference between the variety. The blades look longer than the petiole itself. In nature, the fern is common in forests and rocky areas.
Pteris xiphoid (Pteris ensiformis)
According to its external features, the xiphoid appearance is easily confused with the Cretan one. However, its color is more intense than that of the receiver.
Pteris trembling (Pteris tremula)
One of the tallest species. The fern bush is decorated with dissected petiole foliage, which can lengthen by almost a meter.
Pteris multifida (Pteris multifida)
The plant consists of thin green leaves, painted in a dark tone. The petioles grow up to 30 cm. At the ends of the petioles, 5 lanceolate leaves are formed. In room conditions, the following varieties take root without problems:
- Variegata with variegated greens;
- in Cristata, the upper part of the wai is wide and combed;
- the leaves of Tenuifolia have gray streaks.
Pteris tape (Pteris vittata)
A tall, spreading bush reaches a length of 1 m. Breeding will require a lot of free space and a comfortable flowerpot. The ends of the lush dark green leaves are pulled down. The surface of the plates is dissected into lobes.
Pteris dentata (Pteris dentata)
The variety has a characteristic pale green color and folds on the leaf plates. The length of one leaf is from 30 to 80 cm. The fronds are located perpendicular to the petiole. The culture is rapidly growing green and looks attractive.
