Boston ferns, also known as Nephrolepis exaltata, are a popular species of fern that are native to tropical regions of the Americas. They are known for their lush, arching fronds that can reach up to 3 feet in length. Boston ferns are commonly grown as houseplants because of their tolerance for low light and their ability to improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants.

• History
• Size and Appearance
• How to Care For
• Planting and Repotting
• Troubleshooting
• How to Propagate
• Bug Control
• Plant Benefits
• How to grow indoors/outdoors
• Landscaping and Garden Design
• Pruning
• Reviving the Dead
• How to overwinter a Boston fern?

History

The history of Boston ferns can be traced back to the 19th century when they were first discovered and popularized in the United States. The story goes that a Philadelphia florist named Thomas Hogg imported the first Boston ferns from a shipment of plants from Boston in the 1800s. He quickly recognized the plant’s ornamental value and began selling them in his shop. From there, the Boston fern became a popular houseplant and a staple of Victorian-era homes.

As the popularity of Boston ferns grew, they became more widely available and affordable. By the early 1900s, Boston ferns were a common sight in homes, businesses, and public spaces throughout the United States.

In addition to their ornamental value, Boston ferns have also been used for medicinal purposes. In traditional medicine, the fronds of the fern were used to treat various ailments such as fever, bronchitis, and digestive issues. Today, Boston ferns are still admired for their beauty and are a popular houseplant choice for their air-purifying qualities.

Size and Appearance

Boston ferns are known for their lush, arching fronds that can reach up to 3 feet in length. The fronds are made up of many small, feathery leaflets that give the plant a soft, delicate appearance. The fronds emerge from a central rosette and can form a dense, bushy crown over time.

In addition to their fronds, Boston ferns also produce spore-bearing structures called sporangia on the undersides of their leaves. These sporangia release spores that can grow into new ferns if conditions are favorable.

Overall, Boston ferns have an elegant and graceful appearance that makes them a popular choice for adding a touch of greenery to homes and other indoor spaces.

How To Care For

1. Light: Boston ferns prefer bright, indirect light, but they can tolerate lower light conditions as well. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight as this can scorch their delicate fronds.
2. Water: Boston ferns require consistently moist soil, but they do not like to sit in water. Water your fern when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. When you water, make sure to thoroughly saturate the soil and allow any excess water to drain out of the pot.
3. Humidity: Boston ferns prefer high humidity, so consider misting them with a spray bottle or placing a humidifier nearby. You can also place a tray of pebbles filled with water underneath the plant to increase humidity.
4. Temperature: Boston ferns prefer temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 24 degrees Celsius) and do not like extreme fluctuations in temperature.
5. Fertilizer: Feed your Boston fern with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
6. Pruning: Remove any yellow or dead fronds from your fern regularly to keep it looking healthy and vibrant.
7. Repotting: Repot your Boston fern every 1-2 years into a slightly larger pot with fresh potting soil.

By following these care tips, you can help your Boston fern thrive and enjoy its lush, green foliage for years to come.

Planting

Here are some general planting instructions for Boston ferns:

1. Choosing a container: Choose a container that is slightly larger than the root ball of your Boston fern. Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating in the soil.
2. Preparing the soil: Boston ferns prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a commercial potting mix or create your own by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
3. Planting the fern: Fill the bottom of your container with a layer of soil, then gently remove your fern from its current container and place it in the new container. Make sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
4. Watering: After planting, water your Boston fern thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
5. Placement: Place your Boston fern in a bright, indirect light location, but avoid direct sunlight. Boston ferns prefer high humidity, so consider placing a tray of pebbles filled with water underneath the pot to increase humidity.
6. Maintenance: As your Boston fern grows, you may need to repot it into a larger container every 1-2 years. You can also fertilize your fern with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).

By following these planting instructions, you can help your Boston fern thrive and grow into a lush, beautiful plant.

Boston ferns will need to be repotted when they become root-bound or outgrow their current container. Here are some steps to follow for repotting a Boston fern:

Repotting –

1. Choose the right pot: Select a new pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Make sure the new pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating and causing root rot.
2. Prepare the pot: Add a layer of pebbles or stones to the bottom of the new pot to improve drainage.
3. Remove the fern from its current pot: Gently slide the fern out of its current pot, being careful not to damage the roots. If the plant is stubborn, gently loosen the root ball with your fingers.
4. Trim the roots: Inspect the roots and trim away any that are brown, mushy, or damaged. This will encourage healthy growth in the new pot.
5. Add fresh soil: Fill the new pot with fresh potting soil, leaving enough room for the fern’s root ball.
6. Repot the fern: Place the fern in the new pot, making sure the root ball is centered and the top of the soil is level with the pot’s rim.
7. Water and fertilize: Water the fern thoroughly and fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer according to the package instructions.
8. Monitor the fern: After repotting, monitor the fern for the next few weeks. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged, and avoid placing the fern in direct sunlight until it has acclimated to its new environment.

By following these steps, you can successfully repot your Boston fern and encourage healthy growth.

Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues that can arise with Boston ferns and troubleshooting tips to address them:

1. Yellowing fronds: If your Boston fern’s fronds are turning yellow, it may be a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule as needed.
2. Dry, crispy fronds: If your fern’s fronds are dry and crispy, it may be due to low humidity. Consider misting the plant with water or placing a humidifier nearby.
3. Brown tips on fronds: Brown tips can indicate that the fern is not getting enough water or that the air is too dry. Make sure the soil is consistently moist and consider increasing humidity levels.
4. Wilting fronds: Wilting fronds can be a sign of underwatering or over-fertilization. Adjust your watering schedule and reduce the frequency of fertilization.
5. Pests: Boston ferns can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and other common indoor plant pests. Check the plant regularly and treat with a gentle insecticidal soap if necessary.
6. Fungal issues: Boston ferns can be prone to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. Make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent these issues.

By addressing these common issues and adjusting your care routine as needed, you can help your Boston fern stay healthy and vibrant.

How to Propagate

Boston ferns can be propagated through division, spores, or by using stem cuttings. Here’s how to propagate a Boston fern using stem cuttings:

1. Choose a healthy frond: Select a healthy frond with several leaflets and cut it off using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruners.
2. Prepare the cutting: Remove the lower leaflets from the stem, leaving a few inches of bare stem at the bottom.
3. Prepare the soil: Prepare a pot of well-draining potting soil or a mixture of peat moss and perlite.
4. Plant the cutting: Plant the stem cutting in the soil, burying the bare stem a few inches deep. Water the soil to settle it around the cutting.
5. Provide the right conditions: Place the pot in a bright, indirect light location with high humidity. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or a clear plastic container to increase humidity.
6. Care for the cutting: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and mist the cutting frequently to maintain humidity levels. After a few weeks, the cutting should start to produce new growth.
7. Transplant the cutting: Once the new growth has emerged, you can transplant the new plant into a larger pot with regular potting soil.

By following these steps, you can propagate a new Boston fern from a stem cutting and enjoy even more of these beautiful plants in your home.

Growing Indoors/Outdoors

Here are some tips for growing Boston ferns indoors and outdoors:

Indoors:

1. Light: Boston ferns prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
2. Temperature: Boston ferns prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Keep them away from cold drafts, which can damage the fronds.
3. Humidity: Boston ferns thrive in high humidity. Mist the leaves frequently, or place a tray of pebbles filled with water underneath the pot to increase humidity levels.
4. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
5. Fertilizer: Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
6. Repotting: Repot your Boston fern into a larger container every 1-2 years.

Outdoors:

1. Light: Boston ferns prefer partial to full shade outdoors. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
2. Soil: Boston ferns prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Add compost or peat moss to improve the soil.
3. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and temperature.
4. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the fern to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
5. Fertilizer: Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
6. Overwintering: In areas with frost, bring your Boston ferns indoors before the first frost or cover them with a frost cloth to protect them.

By following these tips, you can successfully grow Boston ferns indoors and outdoors and enjoy their lush, green foliage.

Landscaping and Garden Design

Boston ferns are versatile plants that can add texture and beauty to any garden or landscape. Here are some ideas for designing gardens and landscapes with Boston ferns:

1. Create a woodland garden: Boston ferns thrive in shaded, damp environments, making them perfect for creating a woodland garden. Combine them with other shade-loving plants, such as hostas and astilbes, to create a lush and peaceful garden.
2. Use as a backdrop: Boston ferns can serve as a beautiful backdrop for other plants in a garden. Plant them along the edges of a garden bed or against a fence or wall to create a lush green background.
3. Mix with other ferns: Boston ferns can be combined with other ferns, such as maidenhair and ostrich ferns, to create a stunning display of foliage. Mix and match different ferns to add texture and interest to a garden or landscape.
4. Container gardening: Boston ferns can be planted in containers and used as an accent in a garden or on a patio. They pair well with other shade-loving plants, such as impatiens and begonias, in container gardens.
5. Water features: Boston ferns thrive in damp environments, making them a great addition to water features such as ponds and fountains. Plant them around the edges of a water feature to create a natural, tranquil atmosphere.

By incorporating Boston ferns into your garden or landscape design, you can add a touch of beauty and elegance to your outdoor space.

Bug Control

There are several insects that can infest Boston ferns, including mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, and thrips. Here are some ways to control these pests:

1. Regular inspection: Check your Boston ferns regularly for signs of insect infestations, such as sticky residue, yellowing leaves, or distorted growth.
2. Manual removal: If you spot any insects on your Boston ferns, remove them by hand or with a soft-bristled brush.
3. Insecticidal soap: Spray your Boston ferns with an insecticidal soap solution, which can be effective against mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
4. Neem oil: Apply neem oil to your Boston ferns to control thrips and other insects. Neem oil can be mixed with water and sprayed onto the plant.
5. Diatomaceous earth: Apply food-grade diatomaceous earth to the soil around your Boston ferns. This natural substance can help to control pests such as ants, earwigs, and sowbugs.
6. Prevention: To prevent insect infestations, keep your Boston ferns healthy and stress-free by providing them with the right amount of light, water, and nutrients. Avoid overwatering, which can create conditions that attract pests.

By following these tips, you can help to control insect infestations on your Boston ferns and keep them healthy and beautiful.

Plant Benefits

Boston ferns provide several benefits, including:

1. Air purification: Boston ferns are natural air purifiers, helping to remove pollutants and toxins from the air.
2. Humidification: Boston ferns can help to increase humidity levels in the surrounding air, which can be beneficial for respiratory health and skin hydration.
3. Aesthetics: Boston ferns are beautiful plants that can add a touch of greenery and natural beauty to any indoor or outdoor space.
4. Stress reduction: Studies have shown that interacting with plants, including Boston ferns, can help to reduce stress and promote feelings of well-being.
5. Allergy relief: Boston ferns are hypoallergenic and non-toxic, making them a great choice for those with allergies or pets.

Overall, Boston ferns are a versatile and beneficial plant to have in your home or garden, providing both aesthetic and health benefits.

Over Wintering

Boston ferns are a tropical plant that can be damaged by frost and cold temperatures. In areas with frost, it is important to overwinter Boston ferns to protect them from damage. Here are some tips on how to overwinter Boston ferns:

1. Move indoors: Before the first frost, move your Boston ferns indoors. They prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity, so consider placing them in a room with a humidifier or misting them regularly.
2. Reduce watering: During the winter months, Boston ferns will enter a dormant period and require less water. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot.
3. Maintain temperature: Boston ferns prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Keep them away from cold drafts, which can damage the fronds.
4. Fertilization: Boston ferns do not require fertilizer during the winter months, as they are not actively growing.
5. Prune: Remove any dead or yellowing fronds from your Boston ferns to keep them healthy and promote new growth in the spring.
6. Prepare for spring: In the spring, gradually increase watering and move your Boston ferns back outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.

By following these tips, you can successfully overwinter your Boston ferns and protect them from damage during the colder months.

Pruning

Pruning Boston ferns is important for maintaining their shape, removing dead or damaged fronds, and promoting new growth. Here are the steps to prune a Boston fern:

1. Identify the fronds: Take a close look at the fern and identify the fronds that need to be pruned. Look for dead, brown, or yellow fronds, as well as any that are damaged or diseased.
2. Cut the fronds: Using clean, sharp pruning shears, cut the identified fronds as close to the base of the plant as possible. Be sure to avoid cutting any healthy fronds.
3. Remove debris: After pruning, remove any debris from around the base of the fern to keep it clean and prevent pests or disease.
4. Dispose of the fronds: Discard the pruned fronds in the compost bin or trash.
5. Repeat as needed: Repeat the pruning process as needed to maintain the fern’s shape and promote new growth.

By following these steps, you can effectively prune your Boston fern and keep it healthy and vibrant.

Reviving the Dead

Reviving a dying Boston fern can be a challenging task, but with some proper care and attention, it is possible to bring it back to health. Here are some steps you can take to revive a dying Boston fern:

1. Check the roots: Remove the fern from its pot and inspect the roots. Trim any brown, mushy, or damaged roots, as they can lead to root rot.
2. Repot the fern: Repot the fern in a slightly larger pot with fresh potting soil. Make sure the new pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
3. Water: Water the fern thoroughly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
4. Humidity: Boston ferns thrive in high humidity environments. Increase humidity by misting the fern with water or placing a tray of water near the plant.
5. Fertilize: Fertilize the fern with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer according to the package instructions. This will provide essential nutrients to help the fern recover.
6. Light: Boston ferns prefer bright, indirect light. Place the fern in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the fronds.
7. Prune: Remove any yellow or brown fronds to encourage new growth.

It may take some time for the fern to recover, so be patient and continue to care for it consistently. With proper care, your Boston fern can recover and thrive again.