How To Care For Ferns

Ferns

☀️- Prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the fronds and cause crisping.

💧- Keep the soil consistently moist at root level but not waterlogged, and cut back on watering over winter, allowing the soil to dry out half way through. Do not allow the compost to dry out completely.

🌡️- Thrive in temperatures between 16°C-24°C. Keep away from radiators, fireplaces, and cold draughts.

🪴- Repot every 1-2 years in spring using a peat-free, moisture-retentive but free-draining potting mix with a bit of vermiculite. Ensure good drainage by using some perlite.

🐾- Pet friendly.

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Ferns are ancient plants that evolved millions of years ago and are loved for their delicate fronds and lush foliage with so many varying textures. These beauties love humidity as they originate from forest floors and under great canopies.

Care

Filtered light is how they thrive, but remember, a shaded location outdoors still has a lot more natural light than a corner of your room. This is why it is important to place them near a window with ample amount of daylight. They can tolerate some morning or afternoon sun as long as that sun isn’t hot and burning. Focus on consistent conditions where sudden drop in temperatures doesn’t stress the plant. 

It is important to water regularly to keep the soil evenly damp. Ferns dislike drying out and will quickly tell you they are unhappy. However, it is also vital to avoid soggy soil as stagnant moisture sitting in the bottom of your pot can cause root rot. 

Repotting should be done during the warmer months, preferably during spring and when the roots begin to fill out the pot and you can see them through the drainage holes. Use a regular housepotting mix with perlite for drainage and vermiculite for water retentive use.

Problems

  • Brown, crispy fronds: Dry air or underwatering
  • Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage
  • Spindly growth: Insufficient light
  • Leaf drop: Temperature fluctuations or cold exposure