When we talk about the hottest houseplant to hit this year, you might be expecting something sculptural, cutting edge, newly discovered, or incredibly hard to get. You might justifiably be imagining a plant with a complicated Latin name, and possibly a waitlist as long as the one associated with the Rolex watch or the Birkin bag. But what if the next big thing is something far more familiar? Meet the unexpected stars of 2026 – ladies and gentlemen, let’s hear it for Boston ferns.

Because yes, I’m talking about embracing and growing the Boston fern as part of this year’s houseplant collections. That’s right, the one that once dangled from your grandmother’s porch, or presided quietly over sunny bay windows. Unexpected? Maybe. A welcome sight? Absolutely. These unexpected stars of 2026 are likely comfortably ensconced in many living rooms. But that doesn’t mean they can’t inspire us anew. This plant has always mattered, and as we enter the new year, this is a great moment to appreciate what we always knew, and take it forward with renewed gusto.

As trends swing away from ultra-minimalism and back toward warmth, softness, and emotional connection, the Boston fern deserves its return to the spotlight. For those of us in the know, this is one houseplant that should never fall out of favor. Let’s just call this plant what it is: a true BFF (Boston fern forever!). This living legend has captured the imagination time and again, so here’s why (as a bona fide devotee) I believe it deserves a spot in your home and garden this year – and every year, quite frankly.

From Victorian Icon to Grandma Plant

To understand why the Boston fern plant is back, we need to understand where they’ve been. You might be thinking of Boston ferns as the domain of a different demographic to you, possibly a little ‘yesteryear’ in tone and temperature. And yes, they do have a reputation as an old lady’s plant. But beyond superficial ideals, they are some of the most emphatically loved of all domestic houseplants – with an enduring charm going back centuries.

Victorians were obsessed with ferns indoors and outside – and when I say obsessed, I mean truly obsessed. The 19th-century phenomenon of “pteridomania” (that’s fern madness or fern fever, to you) saw fern motifs everywhere, from wallpaper to ceramics. Meanwhile, many fern varieties filled conservatories, parlors, and greenhouses. The Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’) became a superstar houseplant, thanks to its lush, arching fronds and adaptability to indoor life.

From stumpery gardens and ferneries to elegant conservatories and glasshouses, the Boston fern symbolized refinement, global curiosity, and a love of nature tamed, if not completely controlled. Fast-forward to the 1960s and 1970s, and the fern had another cultural moment. Macramé hanging baskets, sunken living rooms, and boho interiors couched its relaxed abundance and easy living ethos. A Boston fern spilling over a rattan stand felt worldly, artistic – and alive.

So why did this most beloved of houseplants fall out of favor? Partly, perhaps, it became too familiar. Its ubiquity led to a reputation for being tied to a particular vibe (be that fussy, ornate, frou-frou, or just plain old-fashioned). It started getting a bit of a reputation for being that ‘old lady favorite’ plant, and it stuck. As sleek succulents and architectural monsteras took over modern social houseplant platforms, the fern was quietly sidelined… But trends love a comeback story, right?

Time to Rediscover Boston Ferns

So, having been positioned on the fringes of cultural cool, how is it that designers, creatives, and plant lovers are all now rediscovering Boston ferns? Why is it now looking set to become one of the houseplants for the new year? It seems the design mood heading into this year is softer, slower, and more emotionally grounded. Think heritage over hype, comfort over cool, and plants bursting forth with possibilities and not styled within an inch of their lives. Boston ferns fit this notion perfectly.

Designers known for layered, soulful interiors (such as fern enthusiast Justina Blakeney) are championing ferns as movement-makers. Cultural tastemakers like Pamela Anderson (who is also famously experiencing a renaissance) have famously embraced a more pared-back, plant-filled living, and pushed back against an overly cosmetic, excessively produced glamour. Her natural, nostalgic, unpolished, and deeply personal aesthetic is the spiritual home of the Boston fern, infused with carefree zest, romantic abandon, youthful whimsy – and unstructured possibility.

This plant-forward dynamism values softness over sharpness, heritage over hype, and living things over perfection. In this context, a Boston fern isn’t dated and can shed the illusion of being high maintenance or fussy. Instead, it’s grounding. It’s exactly the kind of plant that belongs in a calm, characterful home, where nature is allowed to take the lead, freeing up space for thoughtful houseplant displays. Boston ferns are present everywhere from romantic period dramas to contemporary homes that lean to quiet luxury. The emphasis is on tumbling over conventional lines, while celebrating a heritage that can be reshaped with taste and affection.

Is this a Victorian throwback or a boho revival, or is it modern romanticism – a fusion of art and nature in a sympathetic reframing? Today’s Boston fern lovers want character and poetry, free expression and structural integrity. There’s a place for heirloom-style lacy, long-arched Boston fern varieties like Tropical Plants of Florida’s Boston Fern from Amazon, the more compact forms like Boston Fern ‘Compacta’ from Walmart, the edgy modern arrow points of Costa Farms Boston Fern from Lowes, or the playful frilliness of ‘Fluffy Ruffles’ and ‘Tiger Fern’ varieties.

How to Style Boston Ferns this Year

Growing a Boston fern indoors (or outside, when hardiness regions permit) does not need to be about a particular sensibility. It can just be about liking those expressive fronds, or its particular shape as part of a container garden. But this renaissance of appreciation for a certain softness in modern settings chimes so well with the Boston fern’s aesthetic and its history that it would be wrong not to give it some love. It simultaneously presents a return to tradition… and a twist on that tradition. If you’re stuck for ideas on how these plants can be most effective, consider the following:

• Consider leaf forms and growth habits: A Boston fern has innate drama, albeit softly spoken. Specific varieties can be dense, bushy and upright, like ‘Compacta’, or more about stiff, extended lines like ‘Orlando’ – perfect for modern interiors. Others present with arching, cascading foliage which can seem lacy, frilly or feathery, like ‘Fluffy Duffy’, ‘Fluffy Ruffles’ or ‘Verona’ – great for a romantic or playful vibe. For a curated Victorian, Grecian or naturalistic aesthetic, play with natural-looking containers, stones and ceramics, and stumpery-style planters, like the Dechous Driftwood Stump Log Vintage Planter from Amazon.

• Make more of individual displays: The Boston fern hanging basket is still one of the most impactful ways to showcase these fountains of texture, both indoors and grown outside in courtyards and stumperies. Whether hanging Boston fern plants from ceilings or presented on pillars or pedestals, they add natural movement to vertical gardens and an abundance of free-flowing color. While support is not needed to bolster their shape, you can present them in such a way as to create a visual ‘gallery’, using glass for a Victorian terrarium vibe, iron cages, or cloche dynamics like the Woven Willow Cloche from Anthropologie.
• Choose partners for depth and rhythm: Plant in concert as well as standalone, and lean into their verdant pyrotechnics. As long as you factor in ample growing room (Boston fern spacing is important), they work well in unison with other dramatic and gravity-defying houseplant forms. Balance with architectural forms and bold-shape leaves, like philodendron and calathea. Contrast their thrills and spills with the natural height of a fiddle leaf fig or parlor palm. Offset their frothy fronds with a glossy monstera or the papery silks of a peace lily plant. And lean into their chaotic tumblings by layering with English ivy. Showcase groups of varied tone and texture around a unifying structure, such as Terrain’s Tall Iron Plant Stand from Anthropologie, functional and sturdy.

Why Plant Nostalgia Is Trending

We’re living in a time of ‘plant nostalgia’ – it’s a powerful thing. And as we express this in our natural environments with plants that encapsulate something both dynamic and iconic, Boston ferns are naturally leading the charge. Perhaps this nostalgia revival is purely to do with an appreciation for certain historical periods., The success of dramas like Bridgerton and Downton Abbey accentuate this old school aesthetic which has captured the imagination. Or maybe the Boston fern’s Renaissance is more fundamental. Perhaps, whether we choose to admit it or not, we are ultimately creatures of habit and tend to travel back to what we know?

This isn’t restricted to Boston ferns, and there are certain other ‘old school’ houseplants now enjoying renewed appreciation as part of a throwback to more elegant, creative, introspective and emphatically poetic times. Other houseplants poised for a style renaissance this year include:

• Spider plants – resilient, joyful, and endlessly shareable.
• Rubber plants – bold yet familiar, with rich color.
• Cast iron plants – a Victorian staple, prized for toughness.
• Maidenhair ferns – delicate, romantic, and newly appreciated.
• African violets – compact, floral, and emotionally resonant.

Many of these pair beautifully with Boston ferns, especially in layered, era-inspired displays. To accentuate those throwback vibes, lean Victorian with dark woods, brass pots, and grouped plants. Explore Grecian antiquity with unapologetically sweeping urns and pillars. Channel the Seventies with terracotta, rattan, and macramé. Or blend eras: nostalgia doesn’t have to mean museum-perfect. Plants connect us to memory and comfort, as well as affording continuity. That’s powerful, and increasingly desirable, and it’s something the Boston fern offers with ease.

Obviously, however you tap into this old school aesthetic, consider the plant’s essential cultivation needs. Factor in plenty of space for your vision, cater to filtered, indirect light, and boost humidity where needed, using sprays like the Sincengel Leak-Proof Adjustable Mist Nozzle Plant Mister from Amazon. And don’t forget to feed during active growth with a targeted fertilizer like TPS Nutrients for Boston Ferns from Amazon, to help ride this wave of nostalgia to its fullest expression.

A Houseplant for All Time

It's wonderful that there is a renewed appreciation for this most revered (and yet also maligned) houseplant, which both encapsulates and redefines former glories. Yet while the Boston fern’s return to prominence is in part due to a wave of love for all things nostalgia, I can't help thinking there is a more fundamental truth at play.

Ultimately, there is something innately timeless about the Boston fern that defies mere whims, follies and trends. Surely, the truth is that this is a plant for all time, rather than an accessory to a trend. It adapts to minimalist lofts and maximalist sunrooms, modest courtyards and unique bathrooms. Both confidently modern and unabashedly traditional, you can grow the Boston fern outside and indoors and it thrives, expressing both external movement, and introspective calm. Few other houseplants are as intrinsically expressive, forgiving, nuanced, and generous.

So the invitation for this year is this: be curious, be playful, and think creatively with Boston fern colors, textures, presentations and placings, as we embrace this new age of heritage-modern love. Far from being old-fashioned, this uniquely versatile plant represents the best of all ages, and gives us a chance to both explore new twists on old themes and also honor its fundamentally timeless cool. Hang one where you wouldn’t expect it, pair it boldly, or just let it grow a little wild.

The Boston fern doesn’t just define a moment – it endures. And that may be exactly why it’s poised to be the houseplant of 2026. So rediscover it, reimagine it, and make space for this quietly confident classic in your home, greenhouse, or garden. And let's all celebrate our BFF (Boston fern forever). Coming to a revolution near you…

How to Showcase Your Boston Fern

Showcasing your Boston fern is equal parts presentation and location. There are several ways to cater to your fern’s need for space, humidity and filtered light, whether you choose to keep your plant at your height or pick something more elevated. Here are a few striking, aesthetically pleasing planters, baskets and plant stands to bring out the best in your Boston fern.

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Ferns are amongst the most popular foliage plants you can grow, and a magnificent go-to for shady areas of a garden. Quite often, they can be at their most dramatic when held captive in containers – spilling over the sides of large pots and pouring their elegant swords or frothy angles in all directions. To raise your game, whether you grow your ferns indoors or outside on a porch or balcony, you can grow certain ferns in hanging baskets that create drama and impact in high places.

Ferns are unique plants in that they do not reproduce by flowers. They are ancient plants that reproduce by spores, which you can see on the undersides of their fronds. In the garden, a fern hanging basket is great for areas with shade – and even deep shade, depending on the type. Going vertical with these characterful plants gives you a chance to showcase their varied foliage colors, sizes, shapes and textures. Here are some of the most impactful for fern hanging baskets, plus some great companions to lift your ambitions even further.

Best Ferns in Hanging Baskets

Make sure you understand the specific growing conditions for the ferns you choose. Most ferns require at least some shade, plenty of humidity, warm temperatures, and moist soil, but there is some variation depending on type of fern. Kimberly Queen fern, for instance, enjoys more light – while Japanese holly fern needs less moisture.

Soil in containers dries out more quickly than soil in garden beds, so be prepared to water your hanging baskets more frequently. If you’ll be growing a hanging fern indoors, you might need to mist it to create humidity in dry air. Use an ultra-fine mister like the Bealee Plant Misters from Amazon. Apart from watering and humidity issues, adding a little balanced, water-soluble fertilizer like TPS Nutrients Fern Fertilizer from Amazon during the growing season is adequate for most potted ferns.

Choose your ferns for hanging baskets based on available growing conditions. Certain larger ferns are not ideal for containers, but those in this selection will all flourish in hanging baskets, whether you are hoping to brighten up a low light room or a perennial shade garden. You can play around with container shapes and colors when selecting hanging baskets for ferns. Subtle tones allow bright green foliage to pop – while textural containers work with the naturalistic appeal of your plants. Here are some of the best plants for stunning hanging fern baskets.

1. Boston Fern

Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) is the classic choice for a hanging basket. It is easy to care for and has elegant, arching fronds that are perfect for spilling over the sides of a raised container. Boston fern hanging baskets need warm temperatures, so you can grow them outside in summer – but unless you live in USDA zones 9-11, bring hanging baskets indoors to keep them safe and happy in the winter months.

When growing a Boston fern hanging basket, look for different cultivars for more variety. ‘Tiger Fern’ has gold and green variegated fronds, while ‘Dallas Fern’ is a compact variety which is perfect for smaller baskets. Start your hanging basket adventure with the Element By Altman Plants Boston Fern from Walmart.

2. Kimberly Queen Fern

Another tropical species, Kimberly queen (Nephrolepsis obliterata) has similar foliage to the Boston fern. Also known as sword fern, the fronds are long and lance-shaped and look great in a hanging basket. Kimberly queen ferns are also easy to grow and add elegance and individuality to quirkier hanging planters.

One advantage over the popular Boston fern is that it is less messy and sheds its small leaves only rarely. It also tolerates more direct light, so choose this type for a sunnier spot. You can buy a Costa Farms Kimberly Queen Fern from Amazon.

3. Japanese Holly Fern

Cyrtomium falcatum is a unique evergreen holly fern with glossy green leaves and serrated edges, reminiscent of holly leaves. You can grow Japanese holly fern outdoors in summer or indoors year-round in a spot that gets some afternoon shade.

The soil for this fern does not have to be as moist as for other types, so it’s a good choice for a hanging basket that will dry out more quickly. Grab a Japanese Holly Fern from Nature Hills while stocks last.

4. Asparagus Fern

Asparagus fern (Asparagus aethiopicus), also known as foxtail fern, has feathery fronds and is a tropical evergreen. This makes it great for outdoor baskets in summer and indoor containers year-round. In fact, in some areas of the US, this pretty fern is invasive, so growing it in pots is actually the best thing.

In filtered shade, the frothy asparagus fern will be bright green. It will grow just fine in deep shade as well, but in this case the color will be lighter. You can pick up a Sprengeri Asparagus Fern from Amazon.

5. Staghorn Fern

Staghorn fern is a unique epiphytic fern, meaning it thrives without soil. It grows large, antler-like foliage that looks very dramatic hanging from an appropriate mounting. That said, staghorn fern can be tricky to grow, so it’s not for beginners.

This hanging basket fern needs specific conditions, including bright but indirect light, warm temperatures, and very high humidity. It should be watered infrequently, but heavily. Buy CTS Air Plants Staghorn Ferns in Hanging Baskets from Walmart.

6. Best Fern Companions

Ferns are showstoppers that don’t really need companions. Just one healthy fern is simple yet elegant, and can make a creative container in a vertical display. That said, it can be great fun to make mixed baskets with ferns, accentuating their form with novel contrasts and differing tones. Here are some good ideas for companions.

• Mix Ferns: One of the important considerations for companion plants is that they all have the same growing conditions. So why not mix different types of ferns in one container? A feathery asparagus fern with a dwarf Boston fern, for example, provides a nice textural contrast, and both need similar light and moisture conditions.
• Impatiens: For a flower to pair with hanging ferns, consider growing impatiens. Like most ferns, these tropical annuals like shade and moist soil. Use them between ferns in a hanging container to add a splash of color. Blend your ferns with gorgeous Sol Luna Pink Impatiens Plants from Walmart.

• Polka Dot Plant: For rich flamboyant colors, try a polka dot plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya). This warm-weather perennial is popular as a houseplant or terrarium plant. It thrives in partial shade or indirect light and likes rich, moist soil. Polka dot plants have speckled leaves in shades of pink, white, and red. Enjoy a mixed combination with Fam Plant Store’s Polka Dot Plant Collection from Amazon.
• Coleus: Another plant well known for its spectacular foliage, coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides) is easy to grow and comes in a variety of colors. The flowers aren’t special, but the leaves include mixes of green, chartreuse, burgundy, burnt orange, pink, chocolate and purple. Intersperse yours with frothy or elongated ferns for an interesting mixed basket that will thrive in partial shade. Buy bold Coleus Defiance starter plants from Amazon for zingy greens and rusty reds.

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A shade fern garden is a great idea for filling in spaces where other plants struggle to grow. They can add character, texture, and dramatic focal points under trees, between structures, and in wooded areas. Ferns may well be foliage only, but there is a great variety by species, including different sizes, colors, shapes and textures.

Ferns are the ultimate shade loving plants. While you can find some types of ferns that will grow in the sun, the vast majority are woodland plants that thrive in shade and love moist, rich soil. To make the most of a fern shade garden, sketch out a plan, create your design, then select the best ferns for your space and growing conditions. Here are a few pointers on how you can enhance even modest spaces with statuesque and cascading fronds

Growing the Ultimate Shade Fern Garden

The right ferns for shade can be as simple as planting a couple of types specifically selected to thrive in a shady area. Ferns make great perennial plants for shade gardens and many are naturally suited for tricky low-light conditions. That said, to truly create a beautiful space that makes the most of your shady area, it can help to plan a little. Work with the space, as well as your USDA hardiness zone, soil conditions, and any filtered light.

Select ferns that love shade, but also play with any naturally occurring features like rocks, wooden supports, trellises or arches, or water features. Aim for a variety of shade garden ferns that contrast well with each other for more visual interest, while working harmoniously in a subdued and light-deprived space. Here are some ideas to help you plan the perfect fern garden for your shady spot.

1. Play with Texture

Fern-like is a descriptor for a feathery texture. Most fern varieties have long fronds with smaller leaves, but within this standard, there is actually a lot of textural variety that you can utilize in shady spots. Choose a few different garden ferns for shade with different textures to play with contrast. If all the ferns look similar, your garden will suffer from a lack of depth.

Ostrich ferns, available from Amazon, have classic fern texture, as do lady and Christmas ferns. Set them against a sensitive fern, with its more solid fronds, a Japanese holly fern with its leathery texture, or a hart’s tongue fern with fronds that are nearly solid. Many ferns with varied textures are tropical, but gardeners in cooler climates can use them as annuals. Examples include asparagus fern, foxtail, maidenhair, and bird’s nest fern. You can buy foxtain ferns in containers from Amazon.

2. Add Color

Ferns for shade gardens are largely green, but you can create more visual interest with different shades of green, as well as a few types that include other colors. Stagger standard green ferns with more interesting colors in between them to create depth and visual interest. Ferns can make dynamic shade plant superstars if you layer the tones as well as the textures.

Japanese holly fern has leathery fronds in dark green, similar to the leaves on holly bushes. Japanese painted ferns, available from Burpee, have fronds that are variegated with green and silver and have purple midribs. Japanese painted ferns can seem to shimmer in low light, gleaming and elevating quiet corners. Autumn ferns, also available from Burpee, are named for the coppery reds that shift gradually to green.

3. Vary Fern Heights

In addition to texture and color, you can create variation and interest in your fern garden with different heights. Use shorter types like a groundcover, use the tallest ferns and backdrops, and mix medium-sized ferns in between the two extremes.

Ostrich ferns, available from Walmart, are a great example of a tall, classic-looking fern. Ostrich ferns grow upright and elegantly, reaching heights as tall as 5 feet (1.5m). Dixie wood ferns can reach similarly lofty heights. Short types of ferns include wood fern, Japanese painted fern, and lemon button fern. Lady fern plants, also available from Walmart, come in several varieties. You can get groundcover types and medium-sized lady fern plants for a low maintenance shade garden.

4. Add Other Elements

To create more variety and interest in your shade garden, add other elements. There are some easy ideas for backyard landscaping and fern placement that work directly with shade, using natural materials you may already have in situ. Rocks growing moss, for instance, will look especially lovely set against a bed of ferns. Let moss grow on the ground, too. It’s suited to the same moist, shady conditions as ferns.

If you have a shady area with a stump, you can create a dynamic space around it with ferns. Plan your fern garden around it, selecting ferns to place near the stump that will complement rather than overshadow it. Plant smaller ferns between exposed roots. You can even add soil to the top of the stump and grow small ferns there. Or, use epiphyte ferns on stumps or rocks. These are air plants that don’t need soil, and include bird’s nest, licorice ferns, and staghorn ferns, available from Amazon.

5. Use Hanging Ferns

Choosing ferns of different heights and sizes is one way to create variety and layers in a shade garden. Another way to do this is to place ferns in hanging baskets and elevated containers. Hang pots from tree branches, fences, or other structures in your shade garden.

Boston ferns, available from Amazon, are a classic example of container ferns that thrive with elevation. Their classic fringed fronds spill nicely from a hanging basket. Boston ferns are tropical, but you can move them indoors for winter. Other good choices for a hanging container include sword ferns and macho ferns.

Good hanging baskets just have to factor in ample drainage and adequate room for roots. You can buy 2-Pack Metal Hanging Planter Baskets with coco coir from Amazon. Add a slow release fertilizer with a balanced formula like Vitax Fern and Palm Feed from Amazon to prevent the coir drying out too quickly.

6. Create a Native Fern Garden

Many of the ferns that gardeners love are non-native (even tropical) ferns, but there are plenty of North American species of fern. Consider creating a native fern garden for your shady corner.

Maidenhair ferns, available from Nature Hills, are native to woodlands and grow in pleasant clumps. Maidenhair ferns will also grow in soil on rocks or in stumps. Native Christmas fern is a classic fern with an upright growth structure and deep green color. Cinnamon fern is another great option. Cinnamon fern, also available from Nature Hills, is named for the brownish fuzz that develops on stems and disappears as they mature. Fragile fern is a diminutive native species suitable for groundcover. Choose marsh fern or sensitive fern if your shady area is too wet for other species.

As you plan your shady corner, take into account the specific growing conditions of the shade garden ferns you choose. Most need shade, rich soil, and plenty of moisture, but there are some variations. Also, be aware of hardiness. Tropical ferns make great additions to shade gardens, but will be annuals in many gardens. The right choices and arrangements will help you create a beautiful shade garden.

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Boston ferns are fabulously popular houseplants. Hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, they are kept indoors in pots in most regions. Capable of growing 3 feet (1 m.) high and 4 feet (1 m.) wide, Boston ferns can brighten any room with their lush green foliage. That’s why it can be so disheartening to see your vibrant green fern fronds turning black or brown. Keep reading to learn what causes a Boston fern with black fronds, and what to do about it.

Boston Fern Fronds Turning Black Isn’t Always Bad

There is one case in which a Boston fern with black fronds is perfectly natural, and it’s good to be able to spot it. You may see small black spots on the undersides of your fern’s leaves, lined up in regular rows. These spots are spores, and they’re the fern’s way of reproducing. Eventually, the spores will drop to the soil below and grow into reproductive structures. If you see these spots, don’t take any action! It’s a sign that your fern is healthy. Your fern will also experience some natural browning as it ages. As new growth emerges, the oldest leaves at the bottom of the fern will wither and turn brown to black to make way for new growth. This is totally normal. Cut away the discolored leaves to keep the plant looking fresh.

When Boston Fern Fronds Turning Black is Not Good

Boston fern fronds turning brown or black may also signal trouble, however. If your fern’s leaves are suffering from brown or black spots or stripes, there may be nematodes in the soil. Add lots of compost to the soil-- this will encourage the growth of beneficial fungi that should destroy the nematodes. If the infestation is bad, remove any infected plants. Small, but spreading, soft brown to black spots with an unpleasant odor are most likely a sign of bacterial soft rot. Destroy any infected plants. Leaf tip burn manifests as browning and withering tips on fronds and leaves. Destroy any infected plants. Rhizoctonia Blight appears as irregular brownish black spots that start near the crown of the fern but spread very rapidly. Spray with fungicide.

Boston ferns (Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis') are old-fashioned ferns with beautiful arching fronds. They require adequate sunlight, water and nutrients to thrive, and good cultural practices help keep your fern healthy. If your fern doesn’t get the best care – or even if it does – it may be attacked by Boston fern diseases. Read on to learn more about diseases of Boston fern plants.

Common Boston Fern Problems

If you fail to water your potted fern appropriately, over or under irrigation can lead to unhealthy Boston ferns. Most fern instructions advise you to keep the soil constantly moist. But this is not the same as allowing the soil to be wet or the plant to become water-logged. To avoid issues with Boston ferns, water the plant thoroughly when the top of the soil is dry. Keep watering until it leaks from the drain holes in the bottom of the pot. Do not water again until the soil surface is dry. Failure to water sufficiently can lead to graying, one of the most common Boston fern problems. Graying is often the result of drought conditions. You’ll know if your plant has this condition when the leaves turn gray and the plant may seem to stop growing. Increasing irrigation should resolve this. Although many gardeners consider tropical ferns low-light plants, Boston ferns need adequate light. If they do not get a medium amount of light – at least two hours of indirect light all year round – their fronds become long and pendulous. This is termed weak frond and is resolved by increasing light.

Boston Fern Diseases

If the fronds of your Boston fern turn gray and you’ve been watering properly, a disease to consider next is Pythium root rot. The fronds can also wilt or grow stunted. To confirm root rot, look at the roots of your unhealthy Boston ferns. If they are brown and stunted, it is likely root rot. The best way to prevent a Boston fern from getting root rot is to buy disease-free plants and pathogen free potting soil. You can also check in your garden store for chemicals that control this disease in Boston ferns. These tips are also appropriate for preventing and treating other Boston fern diseases such as Rhizoctonia aerial blight. In blight, dark lesions develop rapidly on the foliage and roots. Unchecked, the entire plant is eventually covered with the pathogen’s brown web-like mycelium. If you opt to use chemicals to treat this disease, treat the soil as well.

Boston fern (Nephrolepsis exaltata bostoniensis) is a dependable, old-fashioned charmer that decorates the environment with cascades of graceful, deep green fronds. Boston fern is a tropical plant that thrives with minimal care; however, light requirements for Boston ferns are a critical aspect of successful growing. Keep reading to learn about Boston fern light needs, including Boston fern light conditions.

How Much Light Does a Boston Fern Need?

Boston fern light requirements vary depending on the time of year. The plant benefits from bright, indirect light during fall and winter. A location where the plant gets at least two hours of indirect sunlight per day, preferably in the morning or late afternoon, is ideal. Boston fern light conditions must change when sunlight is more intense in spring and summer. During the sunny time of year, the fern needs a semi-shady location, such as a window with a northern exposure. Avoid direct, intense sunlight from a window with southern or western exposure unless the window is protected by a sheer curtain, or if the window is shaded by a tall outdoor tree. Consider two important factors when you think about Boston fern indoor light any time of year. Boston fern won't tolerate bright sunlight or total shade.

• First, avoid intense, direct light, which can scorch the fronds.
• Secondly, keep in mind that without adequate sunlight, the plant won't thrive and is likely to drop its leaves.

Now that you know about Boston fern light conditions, you can consider the plant's other needs, which aren't complicated. Water the plant deeply whenever the top inch (2.5 cm.) of soil feels dry to the touch, then let the pot drain thoroughly before you return the plant to its drainage saucer. If the indoor air is dry, place the pot on a tray of wet pebbles to raise the humidity around the plant, but never let the pot sit in water. Fertilize the fern every four to six weeks during spring and summer, using a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to one-quarter strength, or use organic fish emulsion. Mist the plant occasionally to clean dust from the leaves, but don't overdo; damp fronds are more susceptible to disease. Snip old fronds at soil level to generate healthy new growth.

It's hard not to fall in love with a Boston fern. Although it may conjure up images of dramatic, old-fashioned Victorian parlors, Boston fern works just as well in a modern environment. The Boston fern thrives in low light and requires only moderate care to keep it lush and healthy. However, the plant is native to tropical climates and without a high level of humidity, the plant is likely to display dry, brown leaf tips, yellow leaves, and leaf drop. Read on to learn more about improving Boston fern indoor air.

Increasing Humidity of Boston Ferns

There are several ways of increasing the humidity of Boston ferns and creating the ideal Boston fern indoor air. The easiest way to increase Boston fern humidity is to place the plant in a humid environment. In most homes, this means a kitchen or a bathroom with a window or a fluorescent light. However, Boston ferns tend to be large plants, so this isn't always a practical solution for improving Boston fern humidity. Misting Boston ferns is another simple way to raise the humidity around the plants. However, many plant experts think that misting Boston ferns is a waste of time and that taking care of Boston fern misting needs is a daily chore that, at best, keeps the fronds dust-free. At worst, frequent misting that keeps the fronds wet is a good way to invite diseases that can kill the plant. A humidity tray is nearly as easy and much less time-consuming, and it provides humidity without drowning the plant. To make a humidity tray, place a layer of pebbles on a plate or tray, then place the pot on top of the pebbles. Add water as needed to keep the pebbles consistently wet. Most importantly, be sure the bottom of the pot is sitting on the damp pebbles but never directly in the water. Water wicking up the drainage hole creates soggy soil that may cause root rot. Of course, an electric humidifier is the ultimate solution for increasing the humidity of Boston ferns. A humidifier is a great investment if the air in your home tends to be dry, improving the environment for both plants and people.

The crazy fronds of the Boston fern bring life to summer porches and homes everywhere, instilling a little vigor to otherwise plain spaces. They look great, at least until Boston fern leaf drop starts rearing its ugly head. If your Boston fern is dropping leaves, you'll need to take quick action to slow or stop the leaf loss to keep your fern looking is best.

Leaf Drop on Boston Fern

Even though it looks awful when leaflets fall from Boston fern plants, this symptom isn't generally indicative of a serious problem. More often, the cause of Boston fern losing leaves is something in the care the plant's receiving, and that can be changed overnight. Most often when leaves or leaflets yellow, dry up, and drop, it's due to one of these common problems:

Age of leaves - Older leaves will eventually dry and die. That's just how it goes. So if you've got just a few dropping leaves and the care you're giving your plant is otherwise excellent, don't sweat it. You may just want to put some effort into redirecting the long, thin stolons of the plant into the pot so new leaves continue to be produced.

Lack of watering - Boston ferns need water and plenty of it. Although they can tolerate drier conditions than other ferns, they still should be watered every time the surface soil just starts to dry. Soak the plant's soil completely, until water is running out the bottom. If you're doing this, but it still acts like it's dry, a big fern may need to be repotted or divided.

Lack of humidity - Ambient humidity indoors is often severely lacking. After all, Boston ferns are native forest dwellers that rely on high humidity levels to survive. It can be difficult to maintain the 40 to 50 percent humidity that's ideal for ferns throughout the year. Misting does little, if anything, to help, but setting your Boston fern in a larger pot lined with peat or vermiculite and watering that frequently can keep humidity high around your plant.

High soluble salts - Fertilizers are only needed in very small quantities, no more than a dose of 10-5-10 a month, even during heavy growth. When you habitually overfertilize, the unused nutrients build up in the soil. You may notice white flakes on the soil's surface or your fern may turn brown and yellow in isolated areas. Either way, the solution is simple. Flush the soil repeatedly to dissolve and remove all of those excess salts and fertilize your Boston fern sparingly in the future.

Boston ferns are old-fashioned plants that bring the elegance of turn-of-the-century parlors to the modern home. They put one in mind of ostrich feathers and fainting couches, but their rich green foliage is a perfect foil for any decorating choice. The plant requires plenty of humidity and low light to prevent the Boston fern from turning brown. If you have a Boston fern with brown leaves, it might be cultural or simply having the wrong site for the plant.

Boston ferns are made for container gardening. As houseplants, they are easy to care for and add lush greenery to your home. Boston ferns are a cultivar of the Sword fern. The variety was discovered in 1894 in a shipment of these ferns. Today many cultivars exist of the fern, which is as popular now as it was in the 19th century. As a foliage plant, the fern can't be matched, but Boston fern browning on fronds minimizes the attractiveness.

Why is My Boston Fern Turning Brown?

Boston fern browning may be caused by poor soil, inadequate drainage, lack of water or humidity, too much light, excess salt, or simply mechanical injury. If your cat tends to chew on the leaves, the tips will turn brown and die. Or, if you fertilize too frequently and don't leach the soil, the salt buildup will make the fern discolor.

Since there are so many possible causes, eliminate the cat and the fertilizer, take a look at where the plant lives, and then turn your attention to your care.

Cultural Causes for a Boston Fern with Brown Leaves

• Light - Boston ferns need moderate light to produce the greenest fronds, but they are prone to burning on the tips if the light is too intense. Ferns should not be placed in southern windows, as the heat and light will be too much for the plant.
• Temperature - Temperatures should be about 65 degrees F. (18 C.) during the night and no higher than 95 degrees F. (35 C.) during the day.
• Water - The plant also needs consistent water. Maintain an evenly moist medium, but not soggy, to prevent brown fronds on Boston fern.
• Humidity - Humidity is another big part of Boston fern care. Misting is one way to add humidity, but it is only a short term solution, as the water will evaporate. Fill a dish with gravel and water and place the pot on top of this to increase humidity.

How Do I Fix Brown Fronds on Boston Fern?

If cultural issues aren't the reason for your Boston fern turning brown, it might need repotting or feeding.

• Repot Boston ferns using a mixture of 50% peat moss, 12% horticultural bark, and the rest perlite. This will have the excellent drainage the plant requires.
• Use a water-soluble plant food mixed to half the recommended strength every two weeks and once per month in winter. An Epsom salt solution applied twice per year will help keep the greenest color. Mix at a rate of 2 tablespoons per gallon (30 ml./4 L.) of water. Always rinse the foliage after fertilizing Boston fern plants to prevent leaf burn.

Following these steps should soon have your Boston fern looking its best.

Boston fern is a classic, old-fashioned houseplant valued for its long, lacy fronds. Although the fern isn't difficult to grow, it tends to shed its leaves if it doesn't receive plenty of bright light and water. Watering a Boston fern isn't rocket science, but understanding how much and how often to water Boston ferns requires a bit of practice and careful attention. Too much or too little water are both detrimental to the plant. Let's learn more about Boston fern irrigation.

How to Water a Boston Fern

Although Boston fern prefers slightly moist soil, it is likely to develop rot and other fungal diseases in soggy, waterlogged soil. The first sign that a fern is overwatered is usually yellowing or wilted leaves. One surefire way to determine if it's time to water a Boston fern is to touch the soil with your fingertip. If the surface of the soil feels slightly dry, it's time to give the plant a drink. The weight of the pot is another indication that a fern needs water. If the soil is dry, the pot will feel very light. Hold off watering for a few days, then test the soil again. Water the plant thoroughly, using room-temperature water, until water runs through the bottom of the pot. Let the plant drain thoroughly and never let the pot stand in water. Boston fern watering is enhanced if you provide a humid environment. Although you can mist the fronds occasionally, a tray of wet pebbles is a more effective way to increase the humidity around the plant. Place a layer of gravel or pebbles on a plate or tray, then set the pot on the wet pebbles. Add water as needed to keep the pebbles consistently moist. Be sure the bottom of the pot doesn't touch the water, as water seeping up through the drainage hole can cause root rot.

Ferns are ancient plants that reproduce by generating and spreading spores, much like fungi and mushrooms. Boston fern, also known as sword fern, is a dependable plant with masses of long, graceful fronds. One might also notice root nodules on Boston fern plants.

Boston Fern Root Nodules

Highly valued as an indoor plant, Boston fern thrives in pots or hanging baskets. In warm climates where temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees F. (10 C.), the fern is easily grown outdoors. If you ever repot or transplant a mature Boston fern, you may notice balls on roots of ferns. 

These balls, which develop where the fronds meet the underground rhizomes, are small, round growth nodules about the size of a grape. The nodules, also known as “bulbils,” usually appear near the end of the growing season, between late summer and autumn.

Are Balls on Boston Fern Roots Harmful?

Root nodules on Boston ferns aren't harmful. They are a natural adaptation that ensures the plant's survival. Boston fern nodules help the plant take up moisture and nutrients in the soil. They are important because they store water for the plant during periods of drought.

Propagating Boston Fern Nodules

Boston fern is often propagated by dividing a mature plant or by planting small plantlets that grow amidst the larger fronds. You can also propagate the plant by planting the root nodules. Plant a small section of rhizome with attached root nodules in a pot filled with moist potting soil or equal parts sand and peat. 

A rhizome with at least three nodules is more likely to root. Sometimes you can successfully propagate an old, dead fern by planting nodules, which may be fleshy and green even if the main plant is dry and shriveled. Plant the nodules in a pot with the green growth facing upward, just above the surface of sterile potting mix. 

Place the pot in a plastic bag and fill the bag with air. Place the pot in indirect light and temperatures between 59 and 68 degrees F. (15-20 C.). With any luck, you'll notice small, white nodules in one to three months. 

When the nodules develop roots, remove the plastic bag and plant each rooted nodule in its own pot. Moisten the potting soil, then place each pot in a plastic bag to create a greenhouse-like environment. Allow the new fern to mature, then remove the bag and plant it in a larger container, or out in the garden.

Boston fern is a lush, old-fashioned plant valued for its lacy, bright green foliage. When grown indoors, this easy-care plant provides an air of elegance and style. Can you grow Boston fern outdoors though? Read on to find out.

Can a Boston Fern be Grown Outside?

Although Boston fern is often grown as a houseplant, it thrives outdoors in warm, humid climates in USDA zones 9 to 11. With adequate moisture, the plant may tolerate drier climates. Frost may kill the fern to the ground, but it will rebound in spring. Boston fern in gardens require partial to full shade, or dappled, filtered light. This makes the plant a good choice for shady, damp areas, providing a spark of bright color where few other plants will grow. The plant prefers rich, organic soil. If your garden soil is poor, dig in a few inches (8 cm.) of leaf mulch, compost, or finely chopped bark.

Boston Fern Outdoor Care

Boston fern outdoors requires plenty of water and isn't drought tolerant. Provide enough water to keep the soil consistently moist, but never allow the soil to remain soggy or waterlogged. If you live in a dry climate, mist the plant lightly on hot days. If your outdoor Boston fern is growing in a container, it will probably need water every day during the summer. Keep a close eye on the plant. On hot days the fern may require a second watering. Small amounts of fertilizer are best for Boston fern, which is a light feeder. If you notice the leaves are pale or yellowish, this is a good indication that the plant may lack nutrients. Otherwise, feed the plant occasionally throughout the growing season, using a dilute mixture of a regular, water-soluble fertilizer. Alternatively, provide a slow-release fertilizer in spring, and again six to eight weeks later. Although Boston ferns are relatively pest-resistant, they are susceptible to damage by slugs. If the slug infestation is light, pick the pests off the plant early in the morning or in the evening and drop them in a bucket of soapy water. You can also try non-toxic methods to discourage the pests. For example, sprinkle a coarse substance such as dry eggshells, coffee grounds, or diatomaceous earth around the slug; the sharp substance abrades their slimy outer coating. Use slug pellets if absolutely necessary. Read the label carefully, as only a light application is required. Keep the chemicals out of reach of children and pets. Non-toxic slug pellets are also available.

A healthy, mature Boston fern is an impressive plant that displays a deep green color and lush fronds that can reach lengths of up to 5 feet (1.5 m.). Although this classic houseplant requires minimal maintenance, it periodically outgrows its container-- usually every two to three years. Repotting Boston fern into a larger container isn't a difficult job, but timing is important.

When to Repot Boston Ferns

If your Boston fern isn't growing as rapidly as it usually does, it may need a larger pot. Another clue is roots peeking through the drainage hole. Don't wait until the pot is badly root bound. If the potting mix is so root-compacted that water runs straight through the pot, or if the roots are growing in a tangled mass on top of the soil, it's definitely time to repot the plant. Boston fern repotting is best done when the plant is actively growing in spring.

How to Repot a Boston Fern

Water the Boston fern a couple of days before repotting because moist soil clings to the roots and makes repotting easier. The new pot should be only 1 or 2 inches (2.5-5 cm.) larger in diameter than the current pot. Don't plant the fern in a large pot because the excess potting soil in the pot retains moisture that may cause root rot. Fill the new pot with 2 or 3 inches (5-8 cm.) of fresh potting soil. Hold the fern in one hand, then tilt the pot and guide the plant carefully from the container. Place the fern in the new container and fill in around the root ball with potting soil up to about 1 inch (2.5 cm.) from the top. Adjust the soil in the bottom of the container, if necessary. The fern should be planted at the same depth it was planted in the previous container. Planting too deeply can harm the plant and may cause root rot. Pat the soil around the roots to remove air pockets, then water the fern thoroughly. Place the plant in partial shade or indirect light for a couple of days, then move it to its normal location and resume regular care.

The Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata 'Bostoniensis'), often referred to as a sword fern derivative of all cultivars of N. exaltata, is a houseplant popularized during the Victorian era. It remains one of the quintessential symbols of this time period. The commercial production of the Boston fern began in 1914 and includes around 30 tropical species of Nephrolepis cultivated as potted or landscape ferns. Of all fern specimens, the Boston fern is one of the most recognizable.

Boston Fern Propagation

Propagating Boston ferns isn't too difficult. Boston fern propagation may be accomplished via Boston fern shoots (also referred to as Boston fern runners), or by dividing Boston fern plants. Boston fern runners, or stolons, may be removed from a mature parent plant by taking the offset whose runners have formed roots where they come into contact with the soil. Thus, the Boston fern shoots create a new separate plant. Historically, the early nurseries of central Florida grew stock Boston fern plants in beds of cypress-covered shade houses for the eventual harvest of the Boston fern runners from older plants to propagate new ferns. Once harvested, these Boston fern shoots were wrapped in newspaper bare rooted or potted, and shipped out to the northern reaches of the market. In this modern era, stock plants are still kept in climate and environmentally controlled nurseries wherein the Boston fern runners are taken (or more recently, tissue-cultured) for propagating of Boston fern plants.

Propagating Boston Ferns via Boston Fern Runners

When propagating Boston fern plants, simply remove the Boston fern runner from the base of the plant, either with a gentle tug or cut with a sharp knife. It isn't necessary that the offset have roots as it will easily develop roots where it comes into contact with soil. The offset may be planted immediately if removed by hand; however, if the offset was cut from the parent plant, set it aside for a couple of days to allow the cut to dry and heal over. Boston fern shoots should be planted in sterile potting soil in a container with a drainage hole. Plant the shoot just deep enough to remain upright and water lightly. Cover the propagating Boston ferns with a clear plastic bag and place in bright indirect light in an environment of 60 to 70 degrees F. (16-21 C.). When the offshoot begins to show new growth, remove the bag and continue to keep damp but not wet.

Dividing Boston Fern Plants

Propagation may also be achieved by dividing Boston fern plants. First, allow the fern roots to dry out a bit and then remove the Boston fern from its pot. Using a large, serrated knife, slice the fern's root ball in half, then quarters, and finally into eighths. Cut a 1 to 2 inch (2.5-5 cm.) section and trim all but 1 ½ to 2 inches (4-5 cm.) of roots, small enough to fit in a 4 or 5 inch (10-13 cm.) clay pot. Put a piece of broken pot or a rock over the drainage hole and add some well-draining potting medium, covering the centered new fern's roots. If the fronds look a bit sickly, they may be removed to reveal the young emergent Boston fern shoots and fiddleheads. Keep moist but not wet (set the pot atop some pebbles to absorb any standing water) and watch your new Boston fern baby take off.

If you have a lush, green Boston fern on your patio, you won’t want to let it die as colder temperatures approach. Being able to overwinter Boston fern plants is a highly satisfying endeavour, as you will be rewarded with highly structural foliage and verdant displays with the potential for year-round leafy pleasures. Knowing how to overwinter Boston ferns properly is easier than you think, and well worth your time.

Whether you enjoy Boston ferns outdoors in summer or as year-round houseplants, you will need to allow for some special Boston fern care during the colder months. They need adequate light, warmth and humidity. Alternatively, you can overwinter a Boston fern in a garage or similar space, and let it go dormant.

Can You Overwinter Boston Ferns?

You can easily overwinter Boston ferns as long as you provide it with the right conditions. They are only hardy outdoors in USDA zones 8-11 and grow in climates that are warm and humid. They will not survive outdoors in colder, drier climates in winter. As tropical ferns, they are a little fussy in winter. However, it’s not difficult to give them the conditions they need as long as you know what they are.

How to Overwinter a Boston Fern

While Boston ferns don’t need swelteringly hot temperatures, they will not tolerate too much cold and certainly not a frost or freeze. If you are growing a Boston fern outdoors, you need to bring your ferns inside before the first frost is due. Acclimate the plant to its new environment gradually; don't move it abruptly into a new location. These key care essentials can make all the difference as you head towards winter:

• Before bringing it indoors, hose the fern down to remove any insects you don’t want in your home and give it a good soaking. You also need to cut back the fern. Trim ferns back gently, removing any dead, brown or dying fronds and any that are long or straggly. We recommend using these Fiskars Micro-Tip Pruning Snips from Amazon for precision.
• Place it by a window that gets a couple of hours of bright, indirect light each day. A south-facing window is ideal. The area should also be free from cold drafts. Ideal temperatures for a Boston fern in winter are 75°F (24°C) during the day, and a little cooler at night. Temperatures should not go below 55°F (13°C).
• Your fern will also need humidity, but winter air indoors is often dry. Use a pebble tray, like this option from Amazon, or place the fern near a humidifier. Water it regularly to keep the soil moist but never soggy, and provide liquid fertilizer, like this Fern Fertilizer from Amazon, every four to six weeks. Withhold fertilization when overwintering Boston ferns.

Letting a Boston Fern Become Dormant

Overwintering Boston ferns in a hot, dry home environment can cause mess and frustration. If you don't have the right conditions indoors, you can let the plants go dormant and store them in a garage, basement or outdoor building where temperatures don't go below 55°F (13°C).

If you want to overwinter Boston ferns in a dormant state, you need to keep them in a cool (not cold) location with minimal light and plenty of humidity. A dark place is fine for the plant in a sleeping stage. During plant dormancy, reduce watering and do not fertilize them.

Problems Overwintering a Boston Fern

You may find your Boston fern survives over winter inside but doesn’t thrive. This is normal. Keep it going until you can get it outside again. Humidity is one of the biggest issues. Your fern must have adequate moisture in the air, or you will begin to see fern leaf drop.

Another issue is bringing a fern in too late in fall or winter. A frost can damage a Boston fern and a freeze will kill it. If your fern has frost damage, you may still be able to save it. Trim back the damaged fronds and water the fern regularly but lightly. You should see new growth in a few weeks.

How to Revive a Boston Fern After Winter

As long as your fern didn’t completely die overwinter, you should be able to revive it in the spring. Provide it with a bit of fertilizer and plenty of water. Once the last frost date has passed, take your fern outside for a few hours a day to acclimatize it. Do this gradually so as not to shock the plant. Place it in the shade initially and gradually introduce sunlight.

After you move your houseplant outside, trim off any dead, dry or yellow fronds and watch for signs of new growth. Begin fertilizing the fern as usual and provide plenty of water. It’s best to water the ferns with rainwater, or water that is not chlorinated. Overwintered plants resume growth in early spring and should be lush and full again in the second year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston ferns are among some of the most popular houseplants grown and common attractions found hanging from many front porches. While these plants come in various sizes and shapes, most can get quite full. Oftentimes, it is necessary to cut back Boston ferns in order to maintain their vigorous form.

Trimming Boston Ferns

When it comes to pruning Boston fern plants, you should always look towards its leaves for inspiration. It is not uncommon for this plant to exhibit old, discolored fronds. These fronds may be yellow or brown. Older leaves often get shaded out by new growth. 

The plant may also have leafless runners dangling down from the plant. These are all good indications that trimming may be needed. Unsightly plants with erratic growth can always benefit from pruning to maintain an attractive shape as well.

How & When to Prune Boston Fern

While routine trimming of discolored and unattractive foliage can be performed at any time, severe pruning is best accomplished in spring or summer. An ideal time for pruning is during repotting, when plants can be dramatically cut back. In fact, Boston fern responds well to severe pruning, which encourages more prolific, bushy growth and corrects dull, leggy growth. 

When pruning Boston fern always use clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors. Since pruning can be messy, you may want to move the plants outdoors or place an old sheet in the area to catch the cuttings. You don't want to crop the top of the plant when pruning Boston fern. Instead, trim off the side fronds at the base. Also remove old, discolored fronds near the soil to allow new growth to come through. 

Remove the unsightly stems to the base as well. The remainder of the plant can be clipped along the outer edges to the desired shape. Likewise, you may choose to cut the entire plant back to the base if necessary.

Boston Fern Yellow Leaves

Yellow leaves can signal a number of things. For instance, stressed out plants can develop yellow leaves, especially when they are adapting to a new environment. Improper watering can also lead to yellowing leaves. Boston ferns should be kept consistently moist but not soggy. 

Dry air can be a factor as well. Misting plants and providing additional humidity can often alleviate this problem. Pot bound plants will sometimes turn yellow. In addition, it is not uncommon for fronds to turn yellow and then brown as they age. Simply remove any yellow leaves that may be present.

Boston Fern Prune Brown Leaves

Brown leaves are another common occurrence in Boston fern plants. As with yellowing, there may be multiple reasons. Brown edges or tips could be due to uneven watering or too much fertilizer. Generally, Boston ferns should only be fed twice a year (spring/summer). 

Compacted soil or overcrowding can lead to brown leaves as well. Finally, too much contact with the plant can affect the foliage. Touching plants with your fingers can actually cause brown spots to form on the leaves of Boston fern. Prune brown Boston fern leaves at the base as they appear.

Boston ferns are among the most popular houseplant ferns. Many owners of these handsome plants wish to keep their plants happy and healthy through proper Boston fern fertilizing. This brings about the question of how to fertilize Boston ferns. Keep reading to learn the best practices for fertilizing Boston ferns.

How to Fertilize Boston Ferns

Boston ferns, like most ferns, are low feeders, meaning they tend to need less fertilizer than other plants; but just because they need less fertilizer doesn't mean that they don't need to be fertilized. Fertilizing Boston ferns properly at different times of the year is essential to growing beautiful Boston ferns.

Fertilizing Boston Ferns in Summer

Summer is when Boston ferns are in their active phase of growth; more growth means a higher need for nutrients. In the spring and summer, Boston ferns need to be fertilized once a month. The proper Boston fern fertilizer to use in summer is a water soluble fertilizer mixed at half strength. The fertilizer should have an NPK ratio of 20-10-20. During the summer you can supplement the monthly Boston fern fertilizer with slow release fertilizers. Again, when fertilizing Boston ferns, administer the slow release fertilizer at half rate recommend on the fertilizer container.

Fertilizing Boston Ferns In Winter

In the late fall and through winter, Boston ferns slow their growth significantly. This means that they need less fertilizer to grow. In fact, fertilizing Boston ferns too much during the winter is often the reason that Boston ferns die in the winter months. During the winter fertilize Boston ferns once every two to three months. Once again, you will want to fertilize your Boston fern at half the recommended rate on the fertilizer container. The proper Boston fern fertilizer for winter will have an NPK ratio between 20-10-20 and 15-0-15. In the winter it is also recommended that distilled water be used once a month to water the Boston fern to help flush out any salts that may have built up in the soil due to the Boston fern fertilizer that has been used.

As all houseplant lovers will know, the right Boston fern care is a delicate balancing act. Truth be told, these tender ferns can be a bit finicky. Popularized during the Victorian Age, the Boston fern plant (Nephrolepis exaltata) is still commonplace on Southern porches and as an indoor plant. But what works naturally in one household might fall short in another.

Caring for Boston ferns is a commitment, since they require consistent moist soil, bright light and high humidity. Learning how to care for a Boston fern isn't difficult, but it is specific. Growing ferns indoors requires ongoing attention – but it is well worth your time. Here, we outline everything you need to ensure yours are happy and beautiful.

Quick Boston Fern Facts:

• Botanical name: Nephrolepis exaltata
• Height: 2-3 feet (61-91cm)
• Spread: 2-3 feet (61-91cm)
• Sun exposure: Partial shade
• Soil requirements: Well-draining yet moisture retaining or soilless
• Hardiness zones: USDA 10-12
• When to plant: Spring

The Anatomy of Boston Ferns

The best care of Boston ferns relies on understanding a little of their origins, characteristics and native preferences. Also known as the sword fern, Boston fern plants are native to the tropical, moist forests of South America through Mexico, Florida and the West Indies, where this fern reaches 7ft (2m) high. An evergreen, Boston fern has sword shaped, slightly toothed fronds which arch upwards. Other cultivars have twisted, drooping, curly or wavy fronds, but the most common is ‘Bostoniensis’ with its upright spreading habit of 3ft (90cm).

While most ferns are propagated by spores, the Boston fern is considered to be sterile. Instead of spores, it propagates through slender stolons that dangle from the plant. When the stolons touch the soil, a new plant forms. The genus name hails from the Greek ‘nephros’ (kidney) and ‘lepis’ (scale). Its common name is in reference to its discovery as a natural variant in a large shipment of ferns sent from Philadelphia to Boston.

Boston Fern Care

As mentioned, caring for a Boston fern requires commitment and consistency. These lovely ferns look gorgeous on the porches of Southern homes, but when winter strikes they die back and become less than attractive. So how do you keep them lush and green?

• Lighting Conditions:Ferns, including the Boston fern, are understory plants. Basically, this means that these plants thrive in partial shade.
• Best Watering:Boston ferns need consistently moist but not sodden soil. If you are allowing a Boston fern to go dormant, reduce the amount of water given and allow the soil to go fairly dry. Resume your regular watering schedule in the early spring.
• Temperature and Humidity:Boston ferns require high humidity and warm temperatures. To provide them with plenty of humidity, place near the bathroom or kitchen inside or pot them outside. To double pot, place the container with the fern inside a larger pot lined with moist sphagnum moss. To raise humidity, you can place the container-grown fern on a sauce layered with pebbles. Maintain night temperatures of 65°F (18°C). During the day, make sure the plant doesn’t exceed 95°F (358°C).
• Soil and Compost:Boston ferns need a well-draining yet water-retentive soil. Alternatively, you can use a soilless medium such as peat and vermiculite. 
• Fertilizing Needs:Boston ferns prefer rich soil or regular fertilization. For the best Boston fern care, apply a slow-release or liquid houseplant fertilizer at half strength every four-six weeks during the growing season. Stop feeding in winter.

Pruning Boston Ferns

When it comes to pruning Boston ferns, you’ll find that it helps to be observant. Pruning is not necessary during the growing season, except to remove any dead fronds. Once winter arrives and colder temps, Boston ferns will likely begin to lose foliage, even when moved indoors.

You can prune the plant at this time and allow it to go dormant, or wait to prune it in the spring, just before new leaves appear. Prune the plant all the way down to the crown using clean shears.

Repotting Boston Ferns

For the best care of Boston ferns, you’ll find it pays to keep an eye on how well they are doing inside their containers. Boston ferns can be repotted when they have outgrown their container. However, it might be better to divide the plant, depending on the size of the fern. This way, you get new ferns and the parent fern won’t get so large that it becomes unmanageable.

Divide Boston ferns in the late winter or early spring, before new foliage appears. Cut through the root ball with a clean, sharp knife, either in halves or quarters. Be sure to keep plenty of leaves on each division.

Problems, Pests & Diseases

If the growing conditions of Boston fern aren’t met or temperatures drop, the plant tends to drop leaves. This may make the plant look unsightly. Boston ferns are also susceptible to fungus gnats, mealybugs, scales, slugs, thrips and white flies.

While pesticides may be used to reduce infestations, care should be taken. Be sure the pot has excellent drainage and no saucer is attached, lest phototoxicity result. A better control is to use soil drenches with an insecticide. As far as diseases go, Boston ferns are prone to fungal diseases. Keeping the plant moist (but not sodden) is the best way to control fungal disease and maintain the best Boston fern care.

Overwintering Boston Ferns

Glorious, full Boston ferns of summer might begin to look scraggly as temperatures dip in the approach to winter. For the best care of Boston fern, you will need to overwinter it. Move it into a cool room of 50-55°F (10-13°C) with a south-facing window. Reduce watering and allow the plant to go into dormancy.

Best Boston Fern Varieties

While ‘Bostoniensis’ is the most common variety of Boston fern, there are quite a few others to choose from. Once you have mastered better Boston fern care, it’s well worth expanding your collection with one or two of these bushy beauties:

• Compacts’ is shorter and more compact and upright than ‘Bostoniensis’.
• ‘Dallas’ is also a smaller cultivar that is tolerant of lower light levels and less humidity.
• ‘Florida Ruffle’ is medium sized with ruffled leaflets.
• ‘Fluffy Duffy’ has feathery fronds that divide two-three times, forming a dense, small fern.
• ‘Fluffy Ruffles’ has thick wavy leaflets. A smaller plant, it is sterile.
• ‘Golden Boston’ fern has lovely yellow and green leaves.
• ‘Massii’ is like ‘Bostoniensis’ but darker green with drooping fronds.
• ‘Rita’s Gold’ is a compact fern with chartreuse leaves.
• ‘Verona’ is an heirloom with pendulous, lacy fronds.
• ‘Whitmanii’ has serrated feathery leaves. It tolerates a lower humidity.

Frequently Answered Questions