Santa Rosa Tropicals Fern Growing Notes


'Fluffy Ruffle' Nephrolepis exaltata
'Old Reliable'. Unique and easily identified, 'Fluffy Ruffle' has been with us for quite a while. This was probably the first Boston Fern relative that came with a 'cute' name. Truly one of the true 'table ferns'.
Culture for best commercial production: Light: low ok, but bright recommended...1300 fc to 2000fc. Temperature: Quickest finish times 63º to 85º F. Feed: 100 ppm on constant feed (Excel or equivalent 15-5-15). Watering: Should be allowed to dry lightly between waterings. Best pot size: 6". Potting Mix: Must drain well and be low in salts. Should have some peat for ion exchange capacity. There should be dolomite lime present for a calcium and magnesium source. Pest Control: Prevention is the best policy. During the hot months Talstar® plus Orthene® can be used to protect against aphids, scale and caterpillars. Growing Times: (starting with a Santa Rosa Tropicals plug) 6" pot - 12 to 16 weeks. 8" pot - 8 to 12 weeks from a 6".