Foxtail Asparagus Ferns – Information On The Care Of Foxtail Fern
Plant the outdoor foxtail fern in a lightly shaded area, particularly avoiding hot afternoon sun in the hottest zones. The potted specimen outside can take gentle morning sun with light shade for the rest of the day. Indoors, locate the foxtail in bright light and even direct morning sun in winter. Provide humidity to plants growing indoors.
Foxtail Fern
This indoor plant is technically not a fern! It’s possible that it was given this common name because of its habit and fragile-looking leaves. In fact, this so-called fern can tolerate drought once it is established, but indoors, it needs regular watering. The Fern Asparagus will thrive in indirect light, but this adaptable houseplant can handle shadier areas. Increased humidity will help this houseplant look full and continue to push out new growth.
Light
Light is necessary for all plants, and Foxtail Fern enjoys a spot where it receives bright indirect light for at least 5 hours daily. Since the leaves grow the light source, rotate this plant regularly so that each side gets consistent sunlight. This will prevent the plant from growing on only one side. Soft, morning direct sun is fine, but keep it away from intense afternoon sun exposure!
Water
Foxtail Ferns are sensitive to overwatering and dislike being kept too wet. Allow the soil to dry between waterings, but if the plant is actively growing, try to keep the soil consistently moist. If you over-water your plant to the point that it rests in water, it will shed leaves, and the roots will rot. During the winter months, take caution not to water the plants frequently. Wait for the top few inches of the soil to dry out completely first. The leaves can be used to identify whether or not the plant requires water. If you notice the needles turning yellow, it indicates too much or too little water. Check the soil for further identification of any issue
Soil
Potting soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter but still can drain well is the perfect growing medium for all Foxtail Ferns. Most coco coir or peat-based potting soil mixes will be adequate but make sure that they do not contain water-retentive crystals as they can cause the soil to stay moist, causing root rot. If you are feeling adventurous, try creating your own potting soil!
Temperature
Foxtail Ferns prefer to be warm and enjoy temperatures over 60°F. You can take your plant outside during the warmer months, but ensure to bring it back before the temperature falls. Any temperature fluctuations can be regulated with a thermostat. Make sure the temperature does not fall below 55°F as Asparagus densiflorus will not tolerate cold temperatures.
Humidity
As a tropical plant, Asparagus densiflorus grows well under humid conditions. If you live in a dry area, it doesn’t mean you can’t appreciate the magnificent beauty of a Foxtail Fern, but you’ll need to invest in a humidifier. Another suitable method is to set it on a pebble tray filled with water. Learn how to increase the humidity for your indoor plants!
Fertilizer
Fertilize using a diluted complete liquid fertilizer every other week during the growing season. Alternatively, top dress the soil with a 1″ layer of organic compost or sprinkle in slow-release fertilizer. Scratch the compost/slow-release fertilizer into the uppermost layer of the soil, and then water thoroughly!
Growth Rate
Foxtail Ferns are medium-slow growers and will reach a mature height of 3-4′.
Pet Friend or Foe
Foxtail Fern is toxic to pets! Foe
Pro Tips
- Most potting soils come with nutrients sufficient for plant growth. Your plant will have grown large enough to require a larger container by the time it has used the nutrients in its soil. Re-pot your Foxtail Fern once it doubles in size or once a year to replenish its nutrients.
- Asparagus densiflorus will need pruning from time to time either because the shape is very irregular or dead parts need to be removed. Trimming live growth is best done in the winter or early spring, but you can cut off any dead sections at any time of year.
- Although Foxtail Ferns rarely are bothered by pests, we recommend spraying your indoor plants with neem oil to help prevent any possible pest problems!
Foxtail Asparagus Ferns – Information On The Care Of Foxtail Fern
Foxtail asparagus ferns are unusual and attractive evergreen flowering plants and have many uses in the landscape and beyond. Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myers’ is related to the asparagus fern ‘Sprengeri’ and is actually a member of the lily family. Let’s find out how to take care of a foxtail fern in the garden.
About Foxtail Ferns
Foxtail ferns are not really ferns, as they’re multiplied from seeds and produce no spores. The common name likely came from the clumping habit of the plant that is similar to that of a fern.
Foxtail asparagus ferns have an unusual, symmetrical look. These fern-like plants have arching plumes of tightly packed, needle-like leaves that look soft and delicate. Foxtail fern plants bloom with white flowers and produce red berries. The plants appear fragile and may cause gardeners to shy away from them, expecting difficult and extensive care of foxtail fern.
Don’t let the appearance deceive you, however. In reality, foxtail ferns are tough and hardy specimens, flourishing with limited care. Foxtail fern plants are drought-resistant once established. Learning how to take care of a foxtail fern is far from difficult.
How to Take Care of a Foxtail Fern
Plant the outdoor foxtail fern in a lightly shaded area, particularly avoiding hot afternoon sun in the hottest zones. The potted specimen outside can take gentle morning sun with light shade for the rest of the day. Indoors, locate the foxtail in bright light and even direct morning sun in winter. Provide humidity to plants growing indoors.
Foxtail fern plants benefit from regular water during drought and seasonal fertilization. These plants demonstrate their need for fertilization when the needle-like leaves turn pale or yellow. Feed this plant in spring with a time-released food or monthly during the growing season with a balanced 10-10-10 plant food at half strength. Keep the soil lightly moist.
Allow the top 3 inches (8 cm.) of soil to dry out between waterings. The foxtail, also called ponytail fern or emerald fern, benefits from immersion for thorough watering.
Prune back yellowing stems on the plant as needed for a tidy appearance and to encourage new growth.
The ripe red berries on foxtail ferns after flowering contain seeds to propagate for more of the lovely plants. You can also divide foxtail fern plants in spring, making sure the tuberous root system is entirely covered with well-draining soil. Tubers may grow through the top of the soil on plants that are overcrowded in the pot.
Uses for Foxtail Fern Plants
Take advantage of this attractive plant for many of your gardening needs. Bottlebrush-like plumes of foxtail fern plants are versatile; useful in the perennial border alongside other flowering plants, in outdoor containers, and as houseplants for winter months.
Foxtail ferns have a moderate salt tolerance, so include them in your seaside plantings when a finely textured plant is desired in USDA Zones 9-11. In colder zones, grow the plant as an annual or in a container to bring inside for the winter.
Foxtail plumes are also useful as greenery in cut flower arrangements, lasting for two to three weeks before the foliage yellows.