Rescuing an Overwatered, Low-Light Staghorn Fern

A newly purchased staghorn, mounted on wood and hung inside a west-facing sliding glass door, was soaked weekly and misted daily. Leaves curled, browned at tips with white margins, and white dots appeared near leaf bases.

Initial Diagnosis

• Overwatering: Staghorns are epiphytic with low water needs. Stop misting and soaking. Water gently behind the mount every 2 weeks, capturing runoff.
• Bacterial infection: Browning at leaf bases suggests pre-existing infection worsened by excess moisture. Cannot be cured; manage with proper watering.
• Possible mealybugs/scale: White dots may be pests. Wipe with 50% dish detergent solution.

Follow-Up (New Photo)

The plant is a staghorn but looks droopy and unhappy. It's too wet and too dark. Move to the brightest possible indoor spot. Water only when the moss feels dry. Damaged leaves won't recover; watch for new, healthier fronds.