Sprenger asparagus fern, Fern asparagus

(Asparagus densiflorus `Sprengeri')

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Bright green, needle-like leaves are attached directly to a tough, long, arching stem.

FOLIAGE COLORS:

Green

CONTAINER:

Small planter (hanging basket, dish garden, terrariums).

LIGHT:

Medium, prefers high. Does well near an east, west, or south window, filtered light, or location receiving 1000 footcandles or more.

WATER:

Normal to frequent. Water thoroughly, keep soil moist. Can let soil dry to the touch to a soil depth of 1/2".

TEMPERATURE:

Cool - medium. 50 - 70 (degrees F) days, 45 - 65 nights.

HUMIDITY:

Average home

FERTILIZER:

Every 2 weeks during growing period.

SOIL MIX:

1 part sterilized garden loam, 1 part clean coarse sand or Perlite, and 1/2 to 1 part sphagnum peat moss.

PROPOGATION:

Seeds, division in spring/fall

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely, healthy plant free from insect and disease damage. New leaf growth is desirable. Avoid plants with yellow or brown foliage.

CARE:

Easy to moderate. Has root nodules which should not be removed when transplanting.

OTHER CULTIVARS:

`Myriocladus'(Ming fern) - used as cut foliage in floral arrangements. `Myers' - (Plume asparagus) - has plume-like branches.

PROBLEMS:

Scale insects: Scrape off. Isolate. If severe, dispose of plant.
Spider mites: Wash with soapy water and apply miticide.

COMMENTS:

Needs good air circulation. Prefers high light, but not full sun. Can adapt to lower light. Looses most leaves if light level is too low. Often used in hanging baskets.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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