Gloxinias

Gloxinia
Sinningia speciosa

Gloxinia plants are closely related to African Violets, and take the same general care that violets do. They are tuberous plants that need bright indirect light. If you don't provide enough light, these plants will stretch and probably not bloom. As with violets, allow the surface of the soil to dry to the touch before watering them thoroughly. Warm water is usually best and try not to get it on the foliage or the crown. They prefer temperatures in the mid 60's, but when dormant, keep them at 50 F. To raise humidity levels around the plants, use pebble trays with water just enough to barely cover the pebbles. Do not mist these plants to increase humidity! A general purpose houseplant fertilizer will do quite well while the plant is growing and blooming to keep it looking it's best.
Gloxinias need a well drained soil like violets do, and are best repotted when the plant goes dormant. You can start new plants from leaf cuttings like African violets, and they normally bloom for 6-8 weeks.
To bring your plant to dormancy, after all blooms are finished water less and less frequently each week until the leaves turn yellow and dry. Store in a cool(40-50F) place. After several months, new growth will start to appear. At this point, begin watering and fertilizing, and place in the bright indirect light and warmer temperature. You will be rewarded with another round of beautiful blooms once again!

Bear Paw Fern

Bear Paw Fern
Polypodium Aglaomorpha meyeniana

This fern gets it's unusual name from the furry rhizomes that grow along the surface of the soil. They are quite large, brown, and do resemble a bear's paw. This fern is relatively easy to grow, preferring a high light situation indoors, high humidity, and they like to be kept slightly moist. During the summer they can be placed outdoors in a more shaded area, but be sure to watch the water requirements, as they do not like to get totally dry. Fertilize only during the spring and summer, as that is when they are doing all their growing. Repot as little as possible, as they do not mind being a little pot bound, and tend to go into a state of shock for a while after repotting.
These ferns are quite beautiful with their large, dark green, lance shaped leathery fronds and those large furry brown paws which will eventually hang over the pot, looking like a bear is crawling out of the soil! As an easy to care for fern, this plant deserves a prime spot in your home for full enjoyment.