Revive a fern It is possible if we dedicate time, affection and good care to this species. Although we are talking about a very resistant variety, the truth is that it can also be affected by diseases and pests.
The key to achieving total recovery of the plant is that we are clear about what is happening to it. From there, we can take one measure or another to ensure that the fern shows off all its beauty again.
Solutions to revive a fern
We are going to see some of the most common health problems that can affect ferns, the symptoms that we must take into account, and the solution that we can give to each case.
Root rot
When the fern is subjected to too much humidity, there is a high probability that the roots will begin to rot as they do not dry well. In addition, this humidity problem helps fungi such as Rhizoctonia, Phytophthora and Pythium, that can destroy the plant.
A fern whose roots are rotting has withered and yellowed leaves, which fall off prematurely. If we dig a little, we can see that the roots are soft, They have turned dark in color and give off an unpleasant odor.
To solve this problem, remove the fern from the substrate and clean all traces of soil from the roots. Cut out those that you see are most damaged and Let the plant dry in a warm place free of humidity.
Afterwards, you can plant the fern in a new, quality substrate with good drainage capacity. Also make sure that the pot has holes to evacuate excess water from irrigation.
Leaf fungi
Reviving a fern that has fungi is not always easy, and the chances of success are closely related to the speed at which we act. In general terms, the sooner we detect the problem and apply remedies, the better.
Leaf fungi such as Botrytis and Rhizoctonia They affect the leaves, causing brown or black spots to appear on them, as well as a withered appearance and deformation of the fronds.
The problem usually occurs because the plant is exposed to conditions of high humidity and poor ventilation. What we are going to do is eliminate the affected leaves to prevent infections, reduce environmental humidity and improve air circulation around the plant, separating it a little from others.
In addition, it is advisable to apply a fungicide until you verify that the fungi have completely disappeared.
Insects and pests
Ferns can be attacked by many insects, but scale insects, mites and aphids are among the most harmful, because they feed on their sage and They can leave the plant completely dry.
Symptoms of insect infestation are the presence of yellowish leaves and sticky spots on the leaves. Additionally, when we are dealing with a real infestation, it is possible that you can see these insects (although some are tiny) as soon as You approach the plant.
To revive a fern that is being attacked by insects we can use neem oil, or apply a soapy water solution. If these natural remedies do not work, then it is advisable to apply a commercial insecticide, following the manufacturer's instructions so as not to end up damaging the plant.
Nutritional deficiencies
It may be that the fern is weakening because it cannot access the nutrients it needs. If the leaves become discolored, yellow, smaller than normal, or you notice that the plant is not growing, It may be lacking basic nutrients such as nitrogen, iron or potassium.
The solution is to provide a balanced fertilizer, preferably one designed specifically for ferns. It may also be interesting to change the substrate for one of higher quality, or add a little organic matter to the one we are using, something that We can do it by incorporating a little humus or coconut fiber.
Excess or lack of water
It is not strange that the cause of having to revive a fern is related to inadequate watering. If we water the plant a lot, we run the risk of roots rotting, as we said a moment ago.
On the contrary, if we subject the plant to great water stress and water it much less than necessary, it will also get sick. In this case we will notice that The leaves wither very quickly and fall prematurely, even that they are losing color.
The solution to this problem is to adjust irrigation according to the needs of the plant, the environment, and the time of year. Ideally, the substrate should be kept slightly moist, but without being soaked.
If your plant has become sick due to lack of watering, neither will it. “drown.” Add a little water with fertilizer and water again after a few days. In a short time, if you maintain a good irrigation frequency, its appearance should improve significantly.
Exposure to extreme temperatures
Ferns are quite sensitive to extreme temperatures, whether high or low. If the plant has been very cold or very hot, you will notice that the leaves turn dark, They even seem to be burned, and growth slows down.
The solution is to take the plant to a place where you enjoy a stable temperature, away from cold or hot air currents that could damage the leaves.
To stimulate recovery, remove damaged leaves, so that the plant can dedicate all its energy to generating new shoots and growing the branches and leaves it already has.
Basic care to avoid having to revive a fern
In order not to have to apply these emergency measures that we have seen, it is best to take care of the fern correctly so that it does not get sick. To achieve this, keep these tips in mind:
- Place the plant in a location where it will receive partial indirect light.
- The ideal temperature for the fern is between 15º and 25º C.
- Ferns prefer humid environments, but air must be allowed to circulate between the leaves so that humidity does not generate fungi.
- Water about once a week, when the top layer has dried to the touch.
- Use a well-drained substrate rich in organic matter.
- Fertilize during the active growing season.
- Trim any dead or damaged leaves.
- Monitor regularly for insects.
Reviving a fern is not complicated if you know what is happening to it. We hope that our tips help you give your plant a second chance.