The ferns are one of the first plants that appeared on our planet, so they have a long evolution to adapt to their environment and survive. Therefore, it is very interesting to learn about the reproduction of ferns, which can occur in several ways, by themselves or with our intervention if, for example, we want to take a plant equal to a fern we have at home, propagating it to plant it in more places.
In this ecology article, we will talk about the reproduction of ferns and what steps to get new stronger and more beautiful plants for your home. So, if you want to discover How the ferns reproduceeither to study a summary on this song of botany as if it is to spread your own plants, do not miss this information.
How is the reproduction of ferns
The first thing you should know to understand how they reproduce and how ferns are born It is that these plants have several propagation and multiplication systems. Specifically, they can reproduce in three ways: spores, cuttings and stolons, although they can also be reproduced in vitro.
The ferns are seedless plants, so we will talk about Spores of the ferns as the natural and main form of sexual reproduction of these plants with millions of years of existence. This begins when the sacks of spores ripen and open to spread them through the wind. Of all of them, only those who find a place with the necessary conditions will begin their growth stage. It is called the prostalus, in the first shape of the plant in its almost embryonic state and that does not usually measure more than 1.5 cm in length. The reproduction of fernslike that of lycopodes and equisets, it begins with the production of male and female gametes who, once fertilized, give rise to the egg or zygote from which a new plant will be born.
Similarly, there are also ferns capable of reproducing through their underground stems. In them small bumps are created that have a great resemblance to the bulbs and that, once mature, fall to form another plant.
Finally, through asexual reproduction of fernsthe technique of Felico Mata Division. In this way we make sure that we will obtain the same plant and without too much risk. Of course, by dividing ferns, it must be ensured that the divisions have surplus roots so that the plant manages to root quickly in its new container.
To learn more about this interesting theme of botany and gardening, we recommend knowing these other articles about the reproduction of plants, what is asexual reproduction, their types and examples and what are the spores.
How to reproduce ferns by cuttings
Although the vast majority of ferns reproduce through spores, there are several types of them capable of reproducing by cuttings. To achieve this type of propagation from Fern cuttings Let’s explain everything step by step to make it easier for you:
- We recommend that you do it at the end of summer, so wait for this time to do it or do the whole process and keep the plants inside your home with a temperature appropriate to that time to simulate it. Once this is clarified, it begins by preparing the cut.
- The cuthex must be separated from the rhizome with its own network of roots. Cut a section of the cutting assuring you containing at least three roots nodules. We recommend you always take it near the fronds that stand out from the plant’s rhizoma itself.
- Already with the ready cuttings you must quickly move it to the place where you want to plant it, be it a pot or the floor. Cover it and do not compact the earth too much to favor drainage, since these plants need constant irrigation but not a flooding.
- If necessary, you can use some type of specialized fertilizer and/or rooting to ensure optimal growth and development. Here you can learn how to make homemade organic fertilizers and how to make natural rooting.
How to reproduce ferns by stolons
This other method of propagation of fern is usually used in specific species, particularly those that have fine stolons and elongated with several terminal buds. These, upon contact with the ground They produce children that can then be separate and transplant, thus obtaining the new plant.
Generally, this method is the use in greenhouses that have optimal air conditioning degrees, around 25 ยบC, and that have specific containers with peat and mulch, in addition to correcting the pH of this substrate with other substances, such as calcium hydroxide. The important thing is that, through this method, ferns can be produced throughout the year.
How to reproduce ferns by spores
Finally, we explain How the ferns reproduce with sporesa process that occurs alone in the worst nature we can do at home, if what you want is to get new ferns from the one you already have at home:
- With great care, collect the yellow, orange or reddish dust (depending on the species) that is generally found in the underside of the fern leaves. It is recommended to pick it up when the small capsule that contains the spores has taken a dark color. In nature the capsules open and the spores fall, which are moved by the wind and the severity towards a new area and thrive on Earth.
- After picking it out you will need a land container. However, it is better to opt for a more mineral land that offers the universal substrate. Similarly, the land you use must be wet but not very compacted.
- Once you have spread the spores above the Earth, the container and fulfill it abundantly to prevent the spores from escaping because of the wind when the substrate is drying. Make sure the container is always well wet watering several times a day in small doses.
- Now you must be patient. Months may pass until you can see first hand that your attempt to reproduce ferns has given the expected results.
- If you have achieved your first ferns, we advise you to place them in a place with enough shadow, but receive a little sunlight, never directly. If we have a place where moss grows, that will be a good place to locate them.
Now that you know everything about how to reproduce ferns and how they do it in nature, thanks to their spores, we recommend you discover the different types of ferns and the care of ferns.
If you want to read more articles similar to How the ferns reproducewe recommend that you enter our biology category.