Propagating Adiantum Laevigatum (Maidenhair Fern): A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

The delicate adiantum laevigatum, also known as maidenhair fern, is a favorite houseplant for many gardeners. Its lacy fronds and ability to thrive in low light make it perfect for brightening up shady indoor spaces. While you can purchase these ferns from nurseries and garden centers, propagating your own from an existing plant is extremely easy and rewarding. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the simple process of propagating adiantum laevigatum in 4 easy steps.

Step 1: Select a Healthy Parent Plant

The first step is choosing a robust, healthy mother plant from which to take your cuttings. Pick an established adiantum laevigatum that has been growing well for at least 1-2 years and has no signs of disease or pest damage. It should have lots of vibrant new growth. If the plant looks weak, stunted, or stressed, it won’t produce good quality cuttings suitable for propagation.

Ideally, select a plant that’s grown in conditions similar to where your new propagated ferns will live. This gives the new plants the best chance to thrive right away in their new environment.

Step 2: Take Cuttings

Once you’ve chosen your parent plant it’s time to take cuttings. You’ll want cuttings that are 3-6 inches long. Use sterile sharp scissors or gardening shears to cut stems right above a set of leaves. Cut at an angle to give the stem more surface area for rooting.

Each cutting should have at least 2 sets of leaves to provide enough energy and nutrients to produce new roots. Remove the lower leaves and trim any dried tips before planting. Take 2-3 cuttings per pot to improve chances of propagation success.

Step 3: Dip in Rooting Hormone (Optional)

While not strictly necessary, dipping the end of each cutting in a rooting hormone powder will give your new plants a boost. The hormone encourages faster root growth. Simply dip the cut end 1⁄2-1 inch deep into the powder and tap off any excess before planting.

If you don’t have rooting hormone on hand, you can still propagate without it. It just may take a little longer for roots to develop.

Step 4: Plant in Soil

Now you’re ready to pot up your cuttings. Fill small pots with a light, sterile potting mix designed for seedlings and cuttings. Perlite or vermiculite mixed in improves drainage. Gently poke a hole in the soil and insert each cutting so the lower leaves are buried.

Firm the soil around the stems and give the potting mix a thorough watering. Place the pots somewhere warm (65-75°F) with bright, indirect light. Covering the pot with a plastic bag helps retain moisture while roots develop.

Caring for New Propagations

With proper care, your adiantum laevigatum cuttings will root within 4-8 weeks. Here are some tips for looking after them:

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not soaked. Mist leaves daily for humidity.

• Watch for new growth emerging from the stems or soil. This means roots have formed!

• Pot up individual ferns once good root systems develop. Use rich, loose potting mix.

• Gradually acclimate propagated plants to normal indoor conditions over 7-10 days.

• Remove plastic covering once plants are established to prevent mold.

With a bit of time and attention, you’ll have lovely new maidenhair ferns to enjoy or share with fellow plant lovers in no time!

Troubleshooting Propagation Problems

While propagating adiantum laevigatum is generally very straightforward, you may encounter a few hiccups. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

Cuttings shrivel or turn brown: Increase watering frequency and mist leaves daily to boost humidity around cuttings. Covering pots with a plastic tent helps.

No new roots emerging: Be patient! Rooting can take up to 2 months for some ferns. Make sure cuttings have adequate warmth and humidity.

Small new growth but no roots: Some nutrient reserves in the leaves are helping new fronds emerge, but roots have not formed yet. Keep waiting.

Mold growth: Pull back plastic covering slightly to increase air circulation. Remove any cuttings with mold to prevent spreading.

Don’t give up with a little trial and error you can successfully propagate this popular houseplant!

Propagating by Division

In addition to stem cuttings, you can also propagate adiantum laevigatum by dividing mature plants. This involves splitting the fern into smaller sections, each with roots attached. Follow these tips:

• Divide ferns in early spring before active growth resumes.

• Carefully remove from pot and gently tease apart root ball using your hands.

• Cut plant into sections using a sterilized knife, ensuring each has roots.

• Pot the divisions in small pots using fresh potting mix.

• Water well and grow on as normal. New growth will emerge quickly.

Dividing congested plants helps rejuvenate them while also generating brand new ferns. It’s a win-win!

Final Thoughts on Propagating Adiantum Laevigatum

With its delicate charm and versatile growing habits, it’s no wonder adiantum laevigatum is such a coveted houseplant. Propagating these lovely ferns from stem cuttings or divisions is simple and highly rewarding. In no time, you can multiply your collection and have plenty of maidenhair ferns to enjoy or give as gifts.

The propagation process also allows you to select the healthiest, most robust plants with desired traits to serve as parent plants. This helps sustain a strong genetic line of ferns for seasons to come.

So don’t be afraid to give propagating a try with your adiantum laevigatums. Just follow the basic steps outlined here, and you’ll soon have baby ferns popping up left and right!