Boston Fern Care

Boston fern also called Nephrolepis exaltata is native to Florida. It is widely popular as houseplant since Victorian era. The main reason why most people prefer to keep this potted plant is due to its rich, shiny green foliage. Moreover, Boston fern is easy to thrive and can sustain moderate variations in weather. However, if proper care is not taken, the plant may lose its rich foliage and wither away.

Boston Fern Care Instructions

Light
Boston fern enjoys bright, natural light. Hence, if you place Boston fern pots on deck or patios, you will have to take minimal care. When kept outdoors, its requirement is almost negligible, as there is ample sunlight outdoors. Hence, this plant thrives and grows best in warm seasons. However, you need to replace fern plants indoors during winter, as it cannot withstand the extreme cold. If there is no sufficient light indoors, then Boston fern may not grow in a desired way. Placing the pot near east or west facing window ensures adequate light to the plant. It does thrive in dim lit places, but then it loses its shine and stops growing.

Water
It is important to keep the soil moist by watering the plant regularly. However, one must avoid saturating it with water as it can lead to rotting of roots. Watering with tepid water as frequently as possible is a must during hot months of summer. You should not let the soil dry up, as it can affect the health of the plant. However, in winter allow the soil to dry up a little before watering it. Once, the new fronds start growing, you should water the plant more frequently. The new growth begins at the end of the winter. A monthly dose of nitrogen-rich water-soluble houseplant food should be provided in the months of summer, spring and fall. Make sure to dilute it to half the recommended concentration.

Temperature
Boston fern prefers day time temperature than cool evening temperatures. A day time temperature of about 65 °F to 75 °F works best for these plants. An evening temperature of about 55 °F and 65 °F is considered ideal for fern growth. If you have pots hanging from the ceiling, make sure to check the temperature because temperature is always higher near ceiling. You may place it on a stand near patio, in order to ensure proper temperature conditions.

Humidity
Humidity is the most essential factor for the growth of Boston fern. Unfortunately, most homes are not equipped to provide the required amount of humidity to Boston fern. Humidity of 40% is just sufficient for its growth, however, the more humidity you provide, the better. Humidity becomes even more important during winter months when the plant is unable to retain moisture due to dryness and the homes are also heated up. Caring for a Boston fern in winter includes misting the plant with water as frequently as possible. Even in summer you need to mist the plant, but then the water quickly evaporates due to hot weather. A good solution to this problem is placing a saucer filled with water and gravel underneath the potted plant. This way, the evaporating water is trapped by the plant. Refill the saucer, whenever required to ensure continuous supply of humidity. Humidifier is the best solution to provide optimum humidity to fern plant in every season. Keep a hygrometer handy to check the amount of humidity provided.

Care for this plant is not very difficult compared to other houseplants. These plants are less demanding, hence are ideal for people who are always on a go.