Climbing Fern Plant Care

Climbing Fern (Lygodium scandens var. microphyllum) belongs to the Schizaeaceae family within the Lygodium genus. Climbing Fern is native to tropical Africa, Southeast Asia, Melanesia and Australia. Climbing Fern is also known as Old World Climbing Fern, Vine Fern.

Climbing Fern displays a vining, climbing fern growth habit, reaching up to 6 ft tall with a spread of approximately 3 ft. Climbing Fern produces non-flowering.

Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.

Lygodium scandens var. microphyllum requires watering every 5–7 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Climbing Fern thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Climbing Fern in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Lygodium scandens var. microphyllum grows best at temperatures of 65–80°F. Climbing Fern prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Climbing Fern to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Climbing Fern every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 1-2 years. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Climbing Fern can be propagated through spores. Similar propagation techniques also apply to climbing fern plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Climbing Fern is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Climbing Fern grows outdoors in USDA Zone 9b – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 9b. Climbing Fern is native to tropical Africa, Southeast Asia, Melanesia and Australia. In cooler regions, grow Climbing Fern as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.