How to Keep Your Ferns Thriving Indoors

Growing ferns indoors is quite manageable, and it doesn’t require much more effort than keeping orchids alive.

By following a few basic care tips, you’ll be well on your way to nurturing some of the most common and beautiful indoor ferns.

Ferns are among the oldest plant species on Earth, thriving for 300 million years in a remarkable range of environments.

As houseplants, they have a long history of cultivation, with around 12,000 species identified by the American Fern Society.

These range from hardy types to tropical varieties and come in sizes from miniature ferns to the impressive tree ferns of New Zealand and Australia.

Here are some universal care guidelines for keeping your indoor ferns healthy and vibrant.

Humidity is Essential

Most indoor ferns don’t tolerate dry conditions well. Without sufficient humidity, their fronds will quickly turn brown and start to drop. To keep your ferns thriving, mist them regularly, ideally in the morning.

Keep a spray bottle nearby and encourage your family to give them a spritz whenever they pass by.

To further boost humidity, place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles or clay granules and keep these moist.

This helps maintain a humid microenvironment around the plant without making the roots soggy. Alternatively, the bathroom is a perfect spot, as it’s usually the most humid room in the house.

Never Let Your Ferns Dry Out

Most ferns naturally thrive in the damp understory of rainforests, where moisture is abundant. Even epiphytic ferns, like staghorn, benefit from the dampness found in forest tree branches.

Check the soil regularly, and if the surface feels dry, water the fern. However, don’t let it sit in standing water—keep it moist but not waterlogged.

Provide Plenty of Light

Contrary to popular belief, ferns generally aren’t deep-shade plants. In nature, they often receive filtered sunlight through the forest canopy. Place your fern in an area with bright, indirect light to help it thrive.

Be cautious with direct midday sun, as it can cause the fronds to brown. A north or east-facing window is usually ideal.

If your fern is in a room with no natural light, consider using a grow light or fluorescent strip to supplement.

Feed Your Ferns

In their natural habitat, ferns rely on a steady supply of decomposing organic matter. To replicate this indoors, feed your ferns a gentle fertilizer during the growing season.

A diluted liquid fertilizer or slow-release pellet works well. You can even add a few drops of fertilizer to your misting spray for an extra boost.

By following these essential guidelines and understanding the specific needs of your fern species, you’ll be rewarded with a lush and delicate indoor garden.

Embrace these simple steps to enjoy the vibrant, timeless beauty of ferns in your home!