Bromeliads are a type of plant that is native to tropical areas, and they are known for their beautiful flowers. Sword ferns are a type of fern that is native to Australia.
So, can an Australian sword fern live with a bromeliad?
The answer is Yes! Australian sword ferns can actually live quite happily with bromeliads.
The two plants have different watering needs, so it is important to water the bromeliad first and then the sword fern.
Sword ferns also like to be in a shady spot, so placing them next to a bromeliad is a perfect way to give them the conditions they need to thrive.
In this post, we will provide some tips on how to create the perfect environment for these two plants to live in harmony.
What Is the Relationship Between a Bromeliad and an Australian Sword Fern?
The relationship between a bromeliad and an Australian sword fern is that they are both plants that are native to tropical and subtropical regions.
Here are some similarities and differences–
Commonalities
- Both are evergreen plants.
- Both have showy flowers.
- Both grow in humid environments.
Differences
- Bromeliads are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants or objects, while Australian sword ferns are terrestrial, meaning they grow in soil.
- Australian sword ferns have green leaves, while Bromeliads have colorful leaves.
- Bromeliads flower only once, while Australian sword ferns can flower multiple times.
Uses
Bromeliads are often used as ornamental plants, while Australian sword ferns are used as a groundcover or in landscaping.
How to Garden Bromeliad With Aus Sword Fern
When planted together, bromeliads and Australian sword ferns make the perfect combination. The bromeliads provide color and interest, while the Australian sword ferns add texture and depth.
Together, they create a beautiful and unique planting combination that is sure to impress.
Choose the Right Container
When it comes to choosing a container for your bromeliad and sword fern planting combination, there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure the container has drainage holes.
Bromeliads and sword ferns are both moisture-loving plants, so a container that doesn’t drain well will quickly lead to root rot.
Then, consider the size of the container. A too-small pot will limit the growth of your plants, while a too-large pot can make watering difficult (and increase the risk of root rot).
A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot that’s about twice the size of the bromeliad’s current pot.
Finally, think about the material of the pot. Terracotta or glazed ceramic pots are both good choices, as they help to regulate moisture levels.
Prepare the Potting Mix
A moist, well-drained potting mix is preferred by both bromeliads and sword ferns.
To manufacture your own, combine peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand in equal amounts.
Make sure the potting mix you use is “moisture-retentive” or “bog-standard” if it is commercial.
Watering
Both sword ferns and bromeliads want a damp, but not soggy, environment. Before you water your plants again, let the top inch or two of the soil dry up.
Water your plants thoroughly until water flows out of the drainage holes.
Fertilizing
Bromeliads and sword ferns are both light feeders, so they don’t need a lot of fertilizer. However, a half-strength solution of an all-purpose fertilizer applied every other month is plenty.
Pruning
Sword ferns can be pruned to maintain a tidy shape, but bromeliads should only be pruned if necessary (for example, to remove dead or dying leaves).
Is a Staghorn Fern classified as a Bromeliad?
A Staghorn Fern is not classified as a Bromeliad. While both plants are characteristic of tropical regions and have appealing foliage, they belong to different plant families. Staghorn ferns belong to the Polypodiaceae family, whereas Bromeliads belong to the Bromeliaceae family. Therefore, they have distinct staghorn fern vs bromeliad classifications.
How to Care and Maintenance Bromeliads and an Australian Sword Fern?
Bromeliads are tropical plants that come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. They are relatively easy to care for, making them a popular choice for indoor plants.
Australian sword ferns are also a popular choice for indoor plants. They are known for their ability to tolerate low light and low humidity conditions.
When cared for properly, these two plants make the perfect planting combination.
Bromeliads
Here are some tips on how to care for bromeliads –
Light
Bright, indirect light is preferred by bromeliads. They can withstand direct sunlight if you reside in a tropical region.
Water
Because they can withstand drought, bromeliads only require watering when the soil feels dry to the touch.
When watering, make sure to completely submerge the root ball and let any extra water drain.
Fertilizer
During the growing season, bromeliads only require monthly fertilization because they are light feeders.
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer half as strong as it is advised to.
Pruning
Bromeliads can be pruned to remove dead or damaged leaves. However, they do not require frequent pruning.
Australian Sword Ferns
Here are some tips on how to care for Australian sword ferns –
Light
Australian sword ferns prefer bright, indirect light but can also tolerate low light conditions.
Water
Sword ferns native to Australia prefer damp soil. So when the top inch of soil seems dry to the touch, water them.
Don’t forget to soak the root ball and let the extra water drain.
Fertilizer
During the growing season, Australian sword ferns require fertilization every two weeks due to their significant feeding requirements.
Apply a well-balanced liquid fertilizer at maximum strength.
Pruning
You can prune Australian sword ferns to get rid of their damaged or dead leaves. They don’t need to be pruned frequently, though.
Final Say
Bromeliads and an Australian sword fern can make an excellent planting combination. The main benefit is both of them need the same care. If you add bromeliad in the middle of a few sword ferns, the coloring foliage of bromeliad will look stunning. If you plant them in a pot, just try to have a large container.
If you are thinking about adding either of these plants to your home, be sure to do your research to ensure that they will be a good fit for your space and your lifestyle.
Resources:
- https://depts.washington.edu/hortlib/pal/?keyword%5B%5D=polystichum-munitum
- https://depts.washington.edu/hortlib/pal/?keyword%5B%5D=native-plants-washington
- http://www.sarasota.wateratlas.usf.edu/upload/documents/fynplantguide-web.pdf