Description
Boston ferns appreciate a little TLC. They like warm and humid conditions. And they don’t enjoy temperature extremes, either outside or from drafts, air conditioners, and heating vents indoors. It’s important to maintain stable growing conditions for Boston ferns, as any element to their care that’s out of whack can quickly damage the plant.
Plan to water frequently to prevent the soil from drying out. And fertilize from spring to fall when the plant is actively growing. Regularly misting your fern or using other means to raise humidity also is typically a must unless you live in a very humid climate. While pruning typically isn’t a major chore, you should remove dead fronds as needed to keep the plant looking attractive. Overall, these plants don’t have any major pest or disease problems as long as their growing conditions are met.
Boston ferns prefer mild temperatures between roughly 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can’t tolerate either extreme heat or extreme cold. Temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit can harm them, as can temperatures below 35 degrees Fahrenheit. High humidity also is critical for Boston ferns. They thrive in humidity levels of above 80 percent. To raise the humidity around your fern, set it on a tray filled with water and pebbles. Also, regularly mist the plant. If it’s not getting enough humidity, the tips of the fronds will begin to turn brown, which can eventually overtake the whole frond (and plant) if the humidity doesn’t increase.
From spring to early fall, feed your Boston fern with a liquid houseplant fertilizer at half strength once a month. No fertilization is necessary over the late fall and winter months.