Boston ferns have specific requirements, and when those requirements aren’t met, they slowly dry up and gradually shed their leaves. Although they aren’t the easiest houseplants to sustain, they really aren’t difficult to care for. When placed in an ideal location, with regular watering and care, a Boston fern can thrive as well as survive indoors.

Ideal Growing Conditions

When thinking of wild ferns, people envision dark, shady locations, but Boston ferns require lots of light. Place your Boston fern near a window that receives plenty of indirect sunshine. A bright east or west-facing window is an ideal location. They can endure dimly lit locations, but they won’t flourish and grow.

Boston ferns prefer daytime temperatures that range from 65°F to 75°F. Evening temperatures should be a little cooler. Temperatures ranging between 55°F and 65°F are ideal. Place your plant in a naturally cooler location of the home, or in a room where heat vents can be closed if the recommended evening temperatures are too cool for comfort.

Also, keep in mind that areas closer to the ceiling are naturally warmer than lower levels. If your Boston fern hangs near the ceiling, check the temperature, and adjust it if necessary. Otherwise, consider placing in a sturdy plant stand or on a table.

Providing Humidity

Humidity is essential to Boston ferns, so they must receive an adequate amount in order to survive. The average home doesn’t provide anywhere close to the amount of humidity required, especially during winter months when the home is heated. Forty percent humidity is good, but the more humidity the better. Fifty percent humidity is ideal.

When temperatures rise above 70°F, you can provide your Boston fern with some of the humidity it requires by misting it on a daily basis. The humidity provided through misting is helpful, but it’s not the complete answer. When the drops of water evaporate, so do the benefits.

During the hot months of summer, a Boston fern on a table or stand can be placed on a saucer filled with stones and water. As the water evaporates, humidity is naturally provided to the plant. Simply fill a plant saucer with gravel, and fill the saucer with water, just below the top of the gravel. Place the pot on the gravel, and refill the saucer as necessary.

A humidifier is by far the best way to ensure your Boston fern is receiving the humidity it requires. For best results, run a humidifier in the room where your plant is located, especially during winter months when the air is warm and dry. A humidifier is a great investment since it provides countless benefits to the home and family as well as to moisture loving plants.

Consider buying a hygrometer to measure indoor humidity. This handy gauge will enable you to attain the correct level of humidity for optimal health and vigorous growth. Hygrometers are available in many stores that sell outdoor thermometers, plants, and garden supplies.

Watering and Feeding

In warmer months during the growing season, provide your Boston fern with enough tepid water to keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. Water it more frequently during the hottest months of summer, and try not to let the soil become dry before watering. The foliage will lose its bright green healthy glow if it becomes too dry.

In the winter, allow the surface of the soil to become a little dry before watering. When new fronds begin to appear, begin watering more often. Generally, you’ll notice the appearance of new growth as the end of winter approaches.

During spring, summer, and fall, apply a monthly dose of nitrogen-rich water-soluble houseplant food that’s diluted to half of the recommended strength. Don’t feed your Boston fern during winter months.

Repotting

It’s not necessary to repot a Boston fern unless you want a larger plant. When the roots fill the pot, trim them to provide more space. Another option is dividing the root bound plant into smaller plants. Choose containers wisely. The larger the pots, the larger the plants will grow, so keep this in mind when shopping for replacements.

To make a potting mixture suitable for Boston ferns, combine 2 parts peat moss, 2 parts sterile potting soil, 1 part perlite, and a handful of charcoal granules. Repot your plant, and care for it as directed. With proper care and attention, your Boston fern will grow and thrive for many years to come.

Love your fountain and you Laurie, Judi