Plant Library
Boston Fern Care Guide
Nephrolepis exaltata
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
Lush arching fronds, pet-safe, and at its best in a humid bathroom or on a shaded porch.
Plant profile
- Light
- Medium to bright indirect light
- Water
- Keep consistently moist
- Humidity
- High
- Pets
- Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Size
- 2-3 ft
- Growth
- Moderate
Light
Medium to bright indirect light. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
Keep consistently moist. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: high. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with bark or perlite for air. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Never let it dry out completely; crisp fronds do not recover.
Common problems
- Dropping leaflets: Dry soil or dry air.
- Yellow fronds: Too much sun or ageing.
- Gray, dull fronds: Low humidity.
Pets
Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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