How do you keep ferns alive indoors?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Though they originate from a tropical background, keeping ferns alive indoors boils down to tropicality. Ferns evolved to grow under forest understories, where they receive filtered light and constant humidity. Most people kill ferns because they assume they can treat them like a regular houseplant. I can relate to this; I shredded my first fern, which was too close to the heater, not knowing any better. If you can manage three things, you can grow ferns successfully: light, water, and humidity.
Light Conditions
- Provide bright indirect light avoiding direct sun exposure
- Use east-facing windows for gentle morning illumination
- Supplement with grow lights during dark winter months
- Rotate plants weekly for balanced growth patterns
Humidity Management
- Maintain 50-60% humidity using pebble trays
- Group plants together to create microclimates
- Run humidifiers for 4-6 hours daily
- Avoid placing near heating or cooling vents
Watering Technique
- Water when top inch of soil feels dry
- Use room-temperature filtered or rainwater
- Ensure pots have drainage holes
- Soak root balls completely then drain excess
Absolutely, light is the most complicated factor in keeping plants healthy. Ferns like bright filtered light when they live indoors, but don't put them in direct sunlight. The best place for you is a window facing east, which will let them grow into the morning sunshine. I also have sheer curtains over my south windows to avoid leaf burn. You can measure the intensity of the light using phone apps that you can download on your phone, aiming for approximately 100-300 foot candles. Lastly, I rotate my potted plants every week to ensure even growth.
Controlling humidity will help you avoid the crispy brown edges. Tropical ferns pull moisture through their fronds. Dehydration occurs when the air is dry. I maintain a humidity level of 50-60% in my home using pebble trays filled with water. Take advantage of grouping plants to create natural microclimates. Bathroom conditions are favorable due to the steam from the shower. Use a hygrometer to monitor the level, and adjust as necessary.
Watering takes a certain careful balance. Too much water causes root rot, and too little causes wilt. To check for soil moisture, insert your finger two inches deep into the soil. When the soil feels slightly dry, it is time to water. Use filtered water at room temperature, as chlorine can damage the plant's foliage. When watering, make sure that the pot drains completely after watering. When watering, adjust your frequency according to the season, watering more frequently in the summer.
Resolve problems right away. Brown tips indicate low humidity, while yellow leaves often indicate excessive water. Long growth means not enough light. Solutions should be addressed in an orderly manner, starting with environmental changes. Repot plants that have become root-bound in spring. If there are dead fronds, trim them back to redirect the plant's energy where you want it to go. If you pay close attention and take care, you will be rewarded with lovely growth.
Read the full article: 8 Expert Tips: How to Care for Ferns Indoors
