Boston Fern

Nephrolepis exaltataAlso known as: Sword Fern, Nephrolepis, Fluffy Ruffle Fern

The Boston Fern is a lush, feathery fern with gracefully arching fronds that has been a popular houseplant since the Victorian era. Native to tropical regions worldwide, it features bright green, sword-shaped fronds that can grow 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) long. Perfect for hanging baskets and pedestals.

Moderate Care

Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Medium Light

Temperature Range
55-75°F (13-24°C)

Ideal Temp
65°F (18°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 5-7 days, keep soil consistently moist
Summer	Every 3-5 days, never let soil dry out
Fall	Every 7-10 days
Winter	Every 10-14 days, reduce slightly but keep moist

Most common issue is underwatering. Soil should always feel slightly moist. Check daily in hot weather.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Daily
Summer	Multiple times daily
Fall	Daily
Winter	Daily, especially with indoor heating

High humidity is essential. Consider growing in bathroom or using a humidifier.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with diluted balanced fertilizer
Summer	Every 2 weeks at half-strength
Fall	Monthly
Winter	Monthly at quarter-strength

Light feeder. Over-fertilizing causes brown fronds.

Pruning

Frequency: Regularly to remove dead fronds

Best Season: Any time

Remove yellowing or dead fronds at the base. Cut back hard in spring if plant becomes scraggly.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 1-2 years

Best Season: Spring

Use rich, peat-based potting mix. Choose a pot that allows for drainage. Can be divided when repotting.

Propagation Methods

Division of mature plants
Runners (stolons) that develop plantlets
Spores (difficult and time-consuming)

Common Problems

Brown fronds: Low humidity, underwatering, or too much sun
Dropping leaflets: Low humidity or inconsistent watering
Yellow fronds: Overwatering or insufficient light
Pale fronds: Too much direct sunlight

Pro Tips

Perfect for bathrooms due to humidity
Set pot on a tray of wet pebbles to increase humidity
Rotate plant regularly for even growth
Great for hanging baskets where fronds can cascade

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