How to propagate pod fern

How to propagate pod fern

There are two ways to propagate the pod fern: spore propagation and vegetative propagation. These two types of breeding methods are relatively commonly used methods. Let us learn about them in detail.

Spore reproduction

Spore propagation can also be said to be seed propagation. The first thing to do is to collect spores. When the spore leaves of the pod fern change from dark green to yellow-brown, it means that it is ready to be collected, which is around mid-to-late September. Collect spore leaves from plants that are growing well. Dry the spore leaves and crush them, take out the sporangium and put them in the refrigerator at a temperature of about 0~5℃. Before sowing, clean and disinfect with sterile water, and take out the spores after the sporangium splits.

The next step is to make the soil, which is to match the culture medium. The materials to be selected include peat soil, river sand and dark brown soil in a certain proportion. Alternatively, you can choose to sterilize stones and coarse river sand and put them into the culture medium. Before sowing, the soil of the culture medium must be fully moistened. You can soak the culture medium in water to moisten the soil. Then sprinkle the spores on the culture medium, soak them in water, and take them out the next day. Then move the sown culture medium indoors. At this time, the indoor temperature should be above 20℃ and the humidity should reach room temperature above 80%.

Vegetative reproduction

Vegetative propagation, also known as division propagation, is also a common method of propagation. This method of reproduction is usually carried out in spring and autumn. First, you need to choose plants with well-developed rhizomes and good and strong growth, and dig out the fern seedlings with the roots and soil without damaging the roots. At the same time, the mother plant should be dug out and cut into several pieces, but the roots and leaves must be retained to ensure the survival rate. After leveling the soil, start planting. When planting, ensure that the row spacing is 40cm. Plant one plant in each hole, then cover it with soil, compact it, and water it.

Precautions for propagation of pod fern

There is a certain degree of difficulty in using the spore propagation method, so you must pay attention to the method when selecting spores. The sporangium must be stored in a refrigerator at 0~5℃, rinsed with sterile water before sowing, and placed on sterile paper to dry before taking out the spores. The prepared culture medium must also be sterilized to eliminate interference from pests and diseases.

When choosing vegetative propagation, make sure the cut mother plant has roots and leaves so that it can survive easily. Do not plant too densely when planting, control the spacing well, and be sure to compact the soil after covering it to ensure full contact between the roots and the soil.