picture of fern

what on earth is this stuff.. :( help

First and foremost, that is not a fern. Your confusion is perfectly understandable as the common names for such a plant often -- but erroneously -- include the word "fern." In reality, it isn't even a close relative. That plant is actually a species of Asparagus. (Yep, a relative of the type people eat.) It doesn't appear to be dead yet but, as you already know, isn't faring well. This type of plant prefers LIGHTLY moist, well drained soil. (The latter not being truly possible in that container. The so-called "drainage layer" often recommended by folks is not terribly effective.) They also like bright indirect light and, unfortunately, are often prone to pests such as mealy bugs, and spidermites (not to be confused with spiders).

Next, 2m away from a north facing window would be the equivalent to light levels not far removed from sticking it in a closet. Something to keep in mind is the amount of light our eyes require for sight is FAR less than what the majority of plants require for photosynthesis. Our eyes are really very sensitive in comparison.

Molds are pretty much inevitable in a container like that. The lack of air circulation coupled with a lot of moisture creates prime conditions for fungi/molds.

Your watering situation is likely a big factor. As you have discovered, overwatering is frightfully easy to do and once done can't easily be undone with containers like that one. It is possible that during the time it took the media to dry out from the overwatering incident, that the "fern" lost most or all of its roots. It sounds like you have switched up the watering several times. One possible problem with that is the stress such changes place on the plant(s). For example, if the "fern" lost its roots during the "flood", it may have started to send out new roots once the media dried out to "moist" levels. But if you perchance erred by then allowing the media to get TOO dry, those new roots may have shriveled up and died.

Lest you feel like an awful "plant parent", keep in mind that little jar or vase like terrs such as yours -- although cute -- are actually not easy to keep healthy for any length of time. A lot of trial and error (and errors are often fatal) is generally required for longer term success. Many people and stores keep such as temporary arrangements expected to last no longer than a couple months.

Hi

I will keep in mind and water my "fern" more regularly. And move it to a more bright condition.

I guess in the end that my "fern" is just not compatible with the moss because my moss seems to be completely happy with the drier conditions.

My burning questions how do I get rid of the stuff in the bottom? Or will you just say its a hopeless case?

Thanks for your reply. I appreciate it.

Tiffany

I cant tell for sure but I think that the stuff in the bottom is just minerals from those rocks. If that is the case then I wouldn't worry about it. The other possibility is that it's a mold but I don't think it is. Most but not all plants love minerals.

ITs not growing so hopefully its not

should i be pruning away the dead parts of the plant?

Hmm, as much as I love terrariums I haven't been very good at taking care of them. With asparagus which I have grown I would always cut off the dried stuff every fall and then it pops back up in the spring.