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Boston fern

Nephrolepis exaltata

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Boston fern · Nephrolepis exaltata

Arching feathery fronds bring cool green to a shaded balcony.

Care and placement

Prefers bright indirect light (no harsh midday sun) and high 50–70% humidity; keep the mix evenly moist but not waterlogged; avoid dry drafts.

Draft mature dimensions

Maximum height (cm): 60 cm · Maximum spread (cm): 80 cm

Things to consider

ASPCA lists Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) as non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses. Still discourage pets from chewing large amounts.

Unknown evidence does not mean safe. Decorative plants are not automatically edible.

Information is compiled from multiple reputable sources for reference. If you spot an error, please contact us so we can check and update it.

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How to grow and care for it

  1. Planting and pot

    Use a loose, peat- or humus-rich, well-draining mix. Set the crown level with the surface; burying it invites rot. Repot when roots fill the pot at the start of the growing season.

  2. Light

    Bright indirect light: east or north window, or 1–2 m back from a sunny window. Harsh midday sun scorches fronds; a few hours of morning sun is tolerated.

  3. Watering

    Keep evenly moist: water thoroughly then let the top 1–2 cm dry (2–3 times a week in hot weather, about weekly when cool). Humidity matters most: below 40% fronds shed and tips brown; use a humidifier or a bright bathroom.

  4. Feeding

    Feed lightly in the growing season: half-strength liquid fertilizer monthly (or every two weeks). Excess burns fine roots and crisps tips.

  5. Pruning

    Cut old, dry or fully brown fronds off at the base; do not leave green stalks half-cut.

  6. Propagation

    Divide in spring: cut or tease the root ball into sections with several fronds and healthy roots, pot in fresh mix, and keep humid in bright indirect light until established.

  7. Pests and common problems

    Spider mites, scale and mealybugs are common in dry conditions (webs, speckled fronds, sticky residue): raise humidity, wipe with soapy water, use insecticidal soap or neem, isolate affected plants. Crown rot if planted too deep.

  8. For plentiful, healthy leaves

    For a dense, lush arching crown: keep humidity high, the mix evenly moist, light bright and indirect, feed lightly and regularly, and repot when roots fill the pot. Ferns do not flower or fruit.