How to Propagate Birds Nest Plant:
Propogation Made Easy

If you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for houseplant that is both beautiful and low maintenance, the birds nest plant (scientific name: Asplenium nidus) is a great option. This popular plant is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia and the Pacific, and its lush, bright green fronds make it a favorite among indoor gardeners.

But what if you want to propagate your birds nest plant? Fortunately, propagating this plant is relatively simple, and can be done in a few different ways. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps for propagating your birds nest plant so that you can enjoy even more of these lovely plants in your home.

Propagating Birds Nest Plant from Offsets

The easiest way to propagate a birds nest plant is by using offsets. These are small “baby” plants that grow off the parent plant’s stem. Here’s how to propagate your birds nest plant using offsets:

1. First, locate an offset on your parent plant. These should be visible as small plants growing from the base of the main stem.
2. Using a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears, carefully cut off the offset from the parent plant.
3. Plant the offset in a small pot filled with well-draining potting soil. Water the soil well and place it in a bright, indirect light.
4. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and within a few weeks, you should start to see new growth from your propagated plant.

Propagating Birds Nest Plant from Spores

Another way to propagate your birds nest plant is by using spores. This method can be a bit more challenging than propagating from offsets, but it can also be rewarding if done correctly. Here’s how to propagate your birds nest plant from spores:

1. Locate the spores on the underside of one of your mature birds nest plant’s fronds. These will look like small brown or black dots.
2. Cut off the frond with the spores and place it in a paper bag.
3. Allow the frond to dry out completely in the paper bag for several days.
4. Once dry, gently shake the bag to release the spores onto a sheet of white paper.
5. Sprinkle the spores over a tray or pot filled with moistened sphagnum moss or a mixture of peat moss and sand.
6. Cover the tray or pot with plastic wrap to create a humid environment for the spores.
7. Place the tray or pot in bright, indirect light and keep it moist by misting it regularly or placing it on a tray filled with water.
8. Within several weeks, you should start to see small ferns growing from the spores.

FAQs

Q: How often should I water my birds nest plant?

A: Birds nest plants prefer moist soil but do not like to be waterlogged. Water your plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: How do I know if my birds nest plant needs more light?

A: If your birds nest plant’s leaves start to turn yellow or brown at the tips, it may need more light. Move it closer to a window or artificial light source.

Q: Can I propagate my birds nest plant in water?

A: It is possible to propagate birds nest plants in water, but it is not recommended as it can lead to root rot and other issues. Stick with propagation methods that involve planting offsets or spores in well-draining soil.

Q: How big can a birds nest plant get?

A: Birds nest plants can grow up to 3 feet wide and 4 feet tall in their natural habitats, but they typically stay smaller when grown indoors.

Q: Are birds nest plants safe for pets?

A: While birds nest plants are generally considered safe for pets, they can cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities. Keep them out of reach of curious pets just in case.

Propagation is an excellent way to expand your collection of houseplants without having to spend money on new ones. By following these simple steps for propagating your birds nest plant, you’ll be rewarded with even more lush greenery in your home in no time!