Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata · Nephrolepidaceae
- Light
- Medium to bright-indirect
- Water
- High
- Humidity
- High
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Pet-safe
- Yes
- Propagation
- Division
Common problems: Spider MitesScale InsectsMealybugsRoot RotFungus Gnats
Quick facts
- Light: Medium to bright indirect · Water: Keep evenly moist
- Difficulty: Moderate indoors
- Pet-safe: Yes
Description
A classic hanging fern with arching, finely divided fronds. Beautiful when happy, messy when dry, and much more demanding about moisture than beginner marketing suggests.
Care
- Light: Bright indirect to medium light. Avoid harsh direct sun.
- Water: Keep evenly moist, never bone dry. Do not leave sitting in stagnant water.
- Soil & potting: Moisture-retentive but draining mix.
- Humidity & temperature: Likes humidity and cooler stable rooms; dry heat causes shedding.
- Feeding: Light feeding spring-summer.
- Repotting / propagation: Can be divided when full and healthy.
Propagation
By division of a mature clump. Separate rooted sections and keep humidity high while they recover. Spores are possible but impractical at home. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Pet-safe. ASPCA lists Boston fern as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Spider Mites — common in dry air.
- Scale Insects — bumps on fronds and stems.
- Mealybugs — white cotton in dense growth.
- Root Rot — if kept swampy instead of moist.
- Fungus Gnats — often appear in constantly moist fern soil.
- Frond drop / crispy leaflets? Usually dry soil or dry air.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.