Ferns

Boston ferns on our greenhouse tables.

Nothing gives the feeling of green lushness indoors like a collection of well grown, healthy ferns.  Although there are many different ferns, and many of them are not even related, quite a few can be grown indoors if you pay some attention to their specific needs.  Here are a few basic recommendations:

Location:  Most ferns prefer bright diffused light.  A draft-less north window is an ideal location for many ferns, as is a curtain-filtered window facing east.  It's a good idea to turn your fern plants occasionally.

Soil:  Many ferns have specific soil preferences, but almost all will grow well in a peat-based well-drained soilless mix.  Our Ashcombe potting soil is recommended for most of the popular fern varieties.  Ferns need a soil that remains moist, but also drains well so that the plant's roots are not stagnant.

Watering:  If your house temperatures remain above 60°F, then ferns need to be kept moist.  Depending on the humidity level of your home you may have to water your plants every couple of days, or perhaps only once a week.  It's best to watch the plants and check them daily when you first purchase them to see how long it takes for them to dry very slightly.  Some varieties like Maidenhair and Tree Ferns are not forgiving of dry soil.

Feeding:   Since ferns do not flower, keeping them lush and green is the main concern.  A high nitrogen fertilizer will keep plants green and growing.  If ferns are going through a rest period when they are not actively growing, do not fertilize until new growth resumes.  All purpose house plant fertilizer is fine.

Indoor Temperatures:  Normal room temperatures of 65-70°F are fine for most ferns.  If temperatures drop consistently below that in your home, your plants may go into a rest period.  Be sure not to over water when plants are resting.

Humidity:  Humidity levels are very important for certain fern groups.  To increase humidity in a dry home, try growing your ferns on a pebble tray.  Get a large plastic saucer, fill it 3/4-1" deep with fine gravel.  Keep water in the saucer at all times, but keep the level BELOW the surface of the stones.  Set your fern plant on the stones.  The evaporating water will keep the air around the fern humid.  A few pieces of charcoal will keep the water from growing stagnant.  Keep ferns away from heat vents and mist frequently to avoid leaf drop.