Spike Moss

Spike Moss does better when allowed to dry between watering. It should not be allowed to dry out completely and should be watered enough for moisture to be detected on the soil surface. Watering once every three to four weeks should provide adequate moisture for spike moss.

Spike Moss prefers low to medium light and will do well in a bright, indirect light spot. Placing spike moss in a bright location may cause leaf scorching and fading. Additionally, it cannot survive in direct sunlight and may even die when placed in a window with too much direct light.

The optimal temperature for spike moss is between 65°F and 85°F (18˚C - 29˚C). If temperatures drop below this level, spike moss may become dormant, resulting in less growth. Additionally, temperatures over 90°F (32˚C) may cause the leaves to become scorched.

Spike Moss prefers a humid environment. While it is usually enough to mist regularly with water, a water-filled tray or terrarium can be used to efficiently boost the humidity for spike moss without over-watering. The optimal humidity range for spike moss is between 75-85%.

Spike moss prefers to be planted in light, well-draining soil with a neutral pH. Sphagnum moss is a good choice, as its antifungal properties help to prevent root rot. A mix of peat, perlite, and bark can also be used. When planting in a terrarium or vivarium, it is important to use a sterile soil.

Due to its low nutrient requirements, spike moss does not require frequent fertilization. A liquid fertilizer with a ratio of 1-2-2 should be applied during its active growth period. If too much fertilizer is applied, the plant may burn or overgrow too quickly. Fertilizing with fish or seaweed emulsion once a month during its active growing season is an adequate amount for healthy growth.

Spike moss contains sclerenchyma cells that make it resilient to insect damage. However, its humid environment makes it a target for several pests, like aphids, scale insects, and mealybugs. The best way to discourage pests is to keep the foliage dry. Manual removal can be used to remove pests from the plant itself. As a last resort, chemical insecticides can be used.

Spike Moss does not need to be repotted frequently, as it prefers being root-bound. Repotting should be done if the plant has outgrown its pot or every two or three years, depending on how quickly it grows. Spike moss should be transplanted into soil with a neutral pH or a light, well-draining soil mix.

Pruning is not necessary for spike moss, but it can be done to remove dead or dying foliage. Spike moss can be evenly trimmed with scissors to maintain its appearance. It is not advisable to cut off more than 50% of the foliage at once, as this may stress the plant.

A thin layer of mulch can be used to help maintain the moisture of spike moss. Moss is the perfect choice due to its water retaining properties. However, it is important to avoid mulch that is too thick, as it can cause the plant to rot.

Propagation of spike moss is possible by either spores or stem cuttings. To propagate by spores, the head of the plant must be placed in a container filled with warm water and covered with a wet cloth. The spores will settle and can then be planted in a moist and well-draining soil. To propagate by stem cuttings, the stems can be cut into small pieces with two or three leaves on each piece and planted in wet soil. Taking stem cuttings in late spring or early summer will result in the best success.

Spike moss does not require any additional support. Its stems are flexible and can easily be tucked into walls or wrapped around rocks, logs, or trellises. If additional support is desired, a moss pole can be placed in the pot for the plant to attach itself to.

Spike moss may enter a state of dormancy, during which it will not actively grow. If it is exposed to temperatures below 65°F (18˚C), it may enter this dormant state. The plant can still be watered during its rest period, but should not receive any fertilization.

Spike moss is not toxic to cats or dogs and can be kept in areas with pets without fear of harm.