Although ferns are a category of plant, ‘Fern’ is not a genus. Instead, the name fern describes any non-flowering plant with leaves which run along either side of the stem. These divided leaves are called fronds. Although ferns don’t bear flowers (they reproduce via spores!), this doesn’t mean that they can’t be a lively addition to an apartment or home. A well cared-for fern can be a truly zen thing to behold, with vivid green leaves and an arching shape reminiscent of a shelter or a waterfall. Because fern isn’t a genus, there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ for caring for them and an experimental plant owner won’t have a lot of luck trying to cross-pollinate for a ‘Frankenstein Fern’. However, plenty of ferns are kind plants for new owners, proving themselves hardy and easy to grow.
Silver-Ribbon Fern
Botanical Name: Pteris Cretica
These ferns, which earn their genus name Pteris from the Greek word for fern and their species name Cretica from their home in Crete, are sometimes referred to as Cretan Ferns. Though indigenous to Europe, Asia, and Africa, they are cultivated worldwide. As one might expect, they are ribbon-shaped, and the variation albolineata has a milky green-white centre contained by a border of more vivid green. The Silver-Ribbon Fern has a glossy texture which – combined with its milky centre – makes it appear silvery at a distance, earning it the ‘silver’ descriptor.
Unlike the Staghorn Fern, which can do well with very little water, the Silver-Ribbon Fern likes to have an even amount of moisture at all times. Whilst it certainly doesn’t need to be drowned, it’s a good idea to give it a spray of water once a day if it isn’t exposed to rain. The trade-off is that an owner who goes on vacation for a week and closes all the blinds won’t have to worry too much about their Silver-Ribbon Fern, as it can withstand being out of the sun. It doesn’t need much more than an average-but-moist soil but can be given a pick-me-up with a packet of good plant food if it seems to be tiring (which is extremely unlikely).
A plant-owner who is lucky enough to have their own garden will find that the Silver-Ribbon Fern grows happily outdoors. However, it can also be grown in a well-sized pot inside an apartment or – if an owner has ample balcony space or even a particularly sturdy windowsill, the Silver-Ribbon Fern can add a touch of personality to the exterior of an apartment in a hanging basket without (hopefully) evoking a landlord’s ire.
Plant Care
A good mix between shade and indirect sunlight will make this little plant flourish
It doesn’t like to get its roots wet, so try to water from the top with frequent misting
Average to Rich
Deer resistant, so I would say your domestic pets will be just fine, but we still don’t recommend they eat it
Hair Care: Pretty much maintenance free. Although, removing any dead fronds and periodic trimmings will also help it regenerate and reproduce even faster. Basically, for good hair maintenance, give it a regular trim and watch it flourish.
