Pellaea

Family. Sinopteridaceae.    

Origin. New Zealand.

Description. Pellaea is a genus of perennial evergreen ferns that includes about 80 plant species. The rhizomes are branched, the short petioles are pubescent. The fronds are long - up to 45 cm, gracefully curved, covered with numerous pairs of dark green, round or oval leaves up to 2 cm in diameter. In some species, the edges of the leaf plates have small denticles. 

Height. It does not exceed 20-70 cm in height and develops quickly.

Care

Temperature conditions

Pellaea can be kept all year round at a temperature of about 20° C. At higher temperatures, the frequency of watering and air humidity should be increased. A cool dormant period can be provided during the winter months, but do not expose the plant to temperatures below 10°C. 

Lighting

Does not tolerate direct sunlight, like most ferns. The bush can be grown in partial shade, but a well-lit place is preferable. Rotate the pot by ¼ turn every week to prevent it from developing a tilt towards the light source.

Care

Representatives of this genus are unpretentious and do not require special care. In the warm season, take the pot outside to protect it from rain, strong wind and sun. Cut off old and diseased leaves at the base. Pellea does not like sudden changes in temperature.

Substrate

The substrate should be well-drained and have an acidic pH; peat-based soil with the addition of leaf humus and coarse river sand is suitable to improve drainage. 

Feeding

From spring to autumn, feed with water-soluble fertilizers at half strength every two weeks; in the winter months, you can feed monthly.

Purpose

Great for hanging baskets. You can place the pellaea pot on the table.

Flowering time

Doesn't bloom. 

Air humidity

Spraying is only needed when the temperature is high or the air becomes too dry - for example when the central heating is on. Spray in the morning and place the fern in an area with good air circulation to allow moisture to evaporate from the surface of the leaves before dusk. 

Soil moisture

In spring and summer, water generously so that the substrate is completely saturated with moisture. Between waterings, the soil should dry to a depth of about 2 - 3 cm. Moisture should not remain in the pan after watering. In autumn, if the temperature drops, the frequency of watering should also be reduced. 

Transfer

The root system is located close to the soil surface, and ferns can be transplanted into wide and shallow bowls. Transplantation is carried out in the spring, with the beginning of growth, when the plant becomes cramped in the pot. Diseased roots are cut with sharp sterile pruners.

Reproduction

Pellaea is easily propagated by division during transplantation. Each division should have several leaves and a well-developed root system. Spores can be sown in the spring, but often this method of propagation can only be done by professionals. 

Pests and diseases

Fronds become drooping and leaves turn yellow when overwatered. Leaves curl when there is insufficient air humidity or too infrequent watering. Leaves turn pale and fade when exposed to direct sunlight.  

Pests appear rarely, sometimes mealybugs, spider mites, aphids and scale insects, as well as thrips and nematodes.