How to Grow and Care for a Chicken Fern

The Chicken Fern, or Davallia fejeensis, is a distinctive houseplant from the tropical forests of Fiji. Its most notable feature is the fuzzy, creeping rhizomes that spread across the soil, resembling a chicken’s foot and giving the plant its name. These light brown rhizomes produce delicate, lacy fronds, making it a popular choice for hanging baskets where its structure can be fully appreciated.

Chicken Fern Care Guide

Light

Proper lighting is a significant factor in the health of a Chicken Fern. It thrives in bright, indirect light, such as that from a north or east-facing window. Placing the fern in direct sunlight should be avoided, as the intense rays can scorch its delicate fronds, causing damage and discoloration.

Water

Consistent moisture is important for this fern, but it is susceptible to rot if the soil becomes waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, and always use pots with good drainage. It is best to water the soil directly and avoid wetting the fuzzy rhizomes, as this can lead to decay. During winter, reduce watering to prevent oversaturation in dormant periods.

Soil

A well-draining and airy potting medium is necessary for a healthy root system. A peat-based mix is recommended and can be amended with materials like perlite or orchid bark to improve aeration and drainage. The goal is to mimic its natural epiphytic habitat where it would grow on trees or rocks.

Temperature and Humidity

As a native of Fiji, the Chicken Fern prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. Ideal indoor temperatures range between 65-75°F (18-24°C). To increase humidity, you can mist the plant regularly, place it on a tray filled with pebbles and water, or use a room humidifier. Protecting the fern from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations is also beneficial.

Fertilizer

During the active growing season of spring and summer, the Chicken Fern benefits from regular feeding. A balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength should be applied about once a month. Feeding should be suspended during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.

Repotting

Repotting is needed every one to two years, or when the rhizomes have completely covered the soil surface and the plant has become pot-bound. Choose a shallow, wide pot to accommodate the surface-creeping rhizomes. When repotting in the spring, gently remove the plant, trim away some of the older outer roots, and place it in the new container with fresh potting mix.

Propagating a Chicken Fern

Creating new Chicken Ferns is most easily accomplished through rhizome division in the spring. To begin, select a healthy, mature rhizome that has at least one or two fronds attached. Using a clean, sharp knife, carefully cut a 2- to 3-inch section from the parent plant.

Prepare a small pot with a moist, well-draining rooting mixture, such as equal parts peat moss and perlite. Lay the rhizome cutting on the surface of the soil, ensuring the fuzzy side is up. Use a small wire or hairpin to gently pin the rhizome to the soil to ensure good contact for rooting.

Place the pot in a location with bright, filtered light and cover it with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Rooting occurs within a few weeks, and the emergence of new fronds is a clear sign of successful propagation. Once new growth is evident, the plastic bag can be removed.

Common Issues and Solutions

Crispy, brown fronds are often an indication of low humidity or that the plant is not receiving enough water. Increasing ambient moisture can help, as can adjusting your watering schedule to ensure the soil remains consistently moist.

Conversely, fronds that turn yellow can be a sign of overwatering or poor soil drainage. If you suspect this, allow the top layer of soil to dry out more between waterings and check that the pot has adequate drainage holes. If the problem persists, repotting the fern into a more appropriate, well-draining mix may be necessary.

Pests are not a frequent problem, but they can occasionally be affected by spider mites or mealybugs. These pests can be managed by wiping the fronds with a damp cloth or using an insecticidal soap. Snails and slugs may be an issue if the plant is grown outdoors.

Chicken Fern Toxicity

For households with curious pets or small children, plant toxicity is a primary concern. The Chicken Fern (Davallia fejeensis) is considered non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. This makes it a safe choice for adding a touch of green to homes with animals and family members.