Ponga Trees

Ponga Trees

How Fast Do Ponga Trees Grow In NZ?

Ponga trees, also known as the Silver Fern tree, are known for their slow growth rate. While their exact growth rate can vary depending on several factors, here's a general idea:

• Young Pongas: In their initial years, Ponga trees typically grow only a few centimetres per year.
• Mature Pongas: As they mature, their growth rate can increase slightly, reaching around 5-10 centimetres per year.

It's important to remember that these are just estimates, and the actual growth rate can be influenced by various factors:

• Factors like light availability, soil quality, moisture levels, and temperature can significantly impact growth rate. Ideal conditions, like dappled shade, moist but well-drained soil, and moderate temperatures, will promote faster growth.
• Different ponga species can have slightly different growth rates. For instance, Dicksonia squarrosa (Brown ponga) grows slower than Cyathea dealbata (Silver ponga).
• As pongas mature, their growth naturally slows down.

Therefore, if you're planting a ponga, it's important to be patient and understand that it will take many years for it to reach a significant size. However, their slow growth is compensated by their longevity, as pongas can live for centuries with proper care.

How To Plant A Ponga Tree

Choose a partial shade position with good drainage and moderate shelter for your Ponga Tree. The hole should be dug to at least 50-75% deeper and wider than the container the plant is currently growing in. A good planting spade makes this job a lot easier. The Plant Company recommends incorporating compost or sheep pellets into the soil to provide additional organic material, but this is not essential. Do not put fertiliser in the bottom of the hole, rather spread that on the soil surface after planting, and preferably do this when the plant is actively growing in spring.

Remove the plant from the container it is growing in by either pulling it free or by cutting the bag. We recommend cutting the bag, especially for larger grade plants, to minimise any chance of damaging the roots. The Plant Company does not advise cutting through roots, even if the plant is rootbound, as that injures the plant. Our article, Managing Rootbound Plants explains this in more detail.

Now place the plant in the hole and make sure it is level with the soil surface before filling in around it. If it is sitting above the soil surface, dig more out. If it is below, put in more soil and retest the level. Once the plant is set level with the soil surface, add more soil gradually and firm it around the plant using gentle pressure from your fingers as you go. Scatter native plant fertiliser across the soil surface after planting and the give the plant a good watering. If the plant is taller than 30 cm you might want to consider staking it to give it a bit of extra support and use tree ties for secure and appropriate holding. Make sure the soil around the tree does not dry out but be careful to avoid overwatering it and drowning it!

Ponga Tree Care

Here's a quick guide about Ponga tree care:

Location:

• Pongas prefer dappled sunlight similar to their natural forest habitat. Avoid placing them in direct sun positions.
• Choose a sheltered location protected from strong winds and harsh weather conditions.
• Pongas thrive in moist, well-draining, and acidic soil rich in organic matter.
• Before planting, amend your soil with compost, well-rotted manure, or leaf litter to improve drainage and organic matter content.

Maintenance:

• Water your ponga deeply once or twice a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Adjust watering based on the weather, with more frequent watering during dry periods and less frequent during wet periods.
• Avoid watering directly on the crown (growing tip) of the ponga, as this can promote rot. Instead, water around the base of the trunk and allow the water to soak into the soil.
• Apply Native Plant Fertiliser in spring.
• Apply a layer of bark mulch (or other organic material to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pests and Diseases:

• Pongas are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, watch out for:
• Scale insects: These appear as small, white bumps on the fronds. You can control them by spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Crown rot: This fungal disease can occur in poorly drained soil. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.

Ponga Trees For Sale

The Plant Company has Ponga trees for sale in a range of different sizes. If we don’t have what you are looking for, feel free to contact us and the team will endeavour to source for your needs.

The Ponga Fern Is Native to Which Country?

The Ponga Fern, also known as the Silver Fern, is native to New Zealand.

What Is The Difference Between Mamaku And Ponga?

Ponga and Mamaku are both types of tree ferns native to New Zealand, but they have some key differences:

• Ponga, commonly known as the Silver Fern has a silvery-white underside on its fronds. It's a smaller tree fern, typically growing up to 6-12 metres tall. It has a smoother trunk with less prominent frond scars than Mamaku.
• Mamaku (Black Tree Fern or King Fern) is the tallest tree fern in New Zealand, reaching heights of up to 20 metres. It has a thick, black trunk and large, dark green fronds. The trunk is thicker and darker than Ponga with more prominent hexagonal frond scars.

Where To Plant A Ponga Tree?

A Ponga Tree can be a challenge to grow outside of its native environment. It specifically requires:

• Shady or partially shaded conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch their delicate fronds.
• The position should be consistently moist but well-drained which will help increase humidity levels.
• Avoid windy or exposed positions and ensure the plants are well protected when they are young and establishing.
• Avoid heavy frost sites. While they can tolerate frost once established, they can be damaged by heavy frosts, particularly when young.
• If you are growing the fern indoors, avoid drafty positions such as beside doors or along thoroughfares.
• Start with a good-sized plant as this will increase your chances of success.