Mounted ferns are not just a modern interior decor trend; they are a nod to the lush, verdant undergrowth of natural forests where ferns predominantly grow. Mounting plants is a way to bring a piece of the outdoors into the home, creating living art pieces that blend horticulture with artistic botany.

Ferns like the Staghorn (Platycerium bifurcatum), Bird’s Nest (Asplenium nidus), and the Crocodile Fern (Microsorum musifolium) are particularly suited to mounting due to their epiphytic nature – often growing on other plants or objects in their native habitats rather than in the soil. This technique mimics their natural growing conditions. For plant enthusiasts looking to add a unique, natural touch to their home decor, mounting a fern offers an attractive and rewarding project.

Assemble Your Materials

To create your mounted fern masterpiece, you'll need the right materials that not only support the growth of your fern but also complement your home's aesthetic:

• Base Material: Opt for durable, rot-resistant woods like cedar or natural cork. These materials provide an ideal backdrop for your fern, mirroring the trees and rocks that ferns naturally attach to in the wild.

• Fixtures: Brass screws are not only aesthetically pleasing but also resist corrosion, making them perfect for the humid conditions your fern will thrive in.  

• Tools: A small hand saw will allow you to customize the size and shape of your mounting board to fit your space perfectly.

• Filling: Use dried moss to fill in any large gaps between the fern and the mount, ensuring a snug fit and a natural look.

• Soil Mix: A specialized fern soil mix, tailored to the needs of your specific fern variety, will provide the necessary nutrients and moisture retention. For a Crocodile Fern, a mix rich in organic matter with good drainage is ideal. Find my special mix recipe here. 

• Planting Cavity: Creating a larger cavity for soil not only supports bigger growth but also extends the time between waterings, making your fern mount relatively low maintenance.

Hang Your Mounted Fern

Once your fern is securely mounted, it's time to display it:

• Mounting Hardware: Brass plate hangers are efficient and stylish, creating necessary airflow behind the mount and preventing moisture damage to your wall.
• Location: Choose a spot with bright, indirect light to mimic the dappled sunlight of a forest canopy.
• Watering: To water, simply remove the mount from the wall and water thoroughly over a bucket or sink. Allow it to drip dry before rehanging to prevent water damage and to keep your fern hydrated and happy.

Mounting a fern brings a piece of the forest into your home, creating a dynamic and living piece of art. It's a wonderful way to display ferns in a way that not only highlights their natural beauty but also caters to their growth preferences. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or new to the green thumb club, mounting a fern is a rewarding project that brings a touch of nature's serenity into your living space.