Question
Hi Dan,
I recently just purchased a Staghorn fern and was told to water it once I got home in the kitchen sink. I saw the "white fuzz", which I thought was dust and washed it off. Now that I have been doing research, I see that the fuzz was its protective layer and that was absolutely the wrong thing to do. Can my plant be salvaged or is will it die without its protective coat? If it will live, (which I hope it will considering how much I payed for it) do you have any suggestions/tips you could give me to ensure its safe from my harm most of all!! Thanks for your time.

Answer
Dear Kate;

To the best of my knowledge and professional experience, the washing of the white fuzz should have no detrimental effect on the life and health of your plant.  In essence, I believe the fuzz is more crucial in a hostile, natural environment, and that the plant is perfectly content without it in our protected homes and yards.  Many nurseries wash this layer off to present a more attractive product to their customers.

As to general staghorn care:

Staghorns are tropical plants that do not tolerate frost.  In warm climates (such as Florida and Southern California) they may be kept outdoors in the shade.  The most popular setting is hung from (our mounted to) the dense canopy of an oak tree.  There are several websites describing how to mount or hang your staghorn.  In this setting, they collect most of their water and nutrients from the environment and would hardly need any care at all.  They would only need water in periods of prolonged droughts (say one month or longer).  As a novelty, some people 'feed' them with half a banana (peel included) twice a year.  Do not do this if you plan to sit near the plant, because it will attract flies.  Otherwise, its a pretty good idea.

If your plant is smaller or if you need to keep it inside, make sure it gets plenty of natural light (from a window or skylight).  Water occasionally by dipping in the sink, but take care not to wet the leaves.  You may feed lightly once a year.

Staghorns are slow, primitive plants that survive well in a home environment.  Every so often, you should check the bottom of the leaves for white, scaly insects.  These can be wiped off with a wet cloth.  Otherwise, these plants are pretty much insect and disease free, and should provide many years of enjoyment.     

Best of luck!

DC