How can we help?
Answers about the app, your account, and growing healthy staghorn ferns.
Using the App
How do watering reminders work? +
You tell Fern how each fern is grown — mounted or potted — and your light and climate. It then suggests a watering rhythm and reminds you, adjusting as the seasons change. You can snooze or mark “watered” any time.
How accurate is species identification? +
It recognises 18 Platycerium species from a clear photo of the fronds and nest shield. For close pairs like superbum and grande, including the spore patches in frame improves accuracy.
Can I track more than one fern? +
Yes — add as many ferns as you like, each with its own schedule, photo timeline, and care notes.
Account & Billing
Do I need an account to use the app? +
No. You can start tracking right away. An optional account lets you back up and sync your collection across devices.
Is the app really free? +
The core app is free on iOS. We may offer optional premium features in future, but reminders, tracking, and ID stay free.
What happens to my data? +
Your ferns and photos stay on your device unless you opt into sync. We never sell personal data — see our Privacy Policy for detail.
Fern Care
Why is my staghorn turning yellow? +
Usually overwatering, sun scorch, or heat stress — the pattern tells you which. We walk through each cause and fix in our diagnosis guide.
How often should I water a mounted staghorn? +
Water when the mount feels light and dry, then soak and drain fully. That's often weekly in summer and less in winter — exactly what the app's reminders adapt to.
Should I cut off the brown shield fronds? +
No — brown basal shields are normal and protect the root ball. Leave them in place; only remove fronds that are soft and rotting.
All help articles
Still need a hand?
Can't find your answer? Our team and the grower community are happy to help.