The Boston fern was a surprise discovery in a shipment to a Massachusetts florist shop sometime in 1894 . More elegant than the sword fern that was usual at the time , Boston fern promptly became a favorite indoor works . Today it is still found in many homes , as it grows well and does not require complicated tending .
About the Boston Fern
Boston fern is a cultivar of a Florida indigen , the sword fernNephrolepis exaltata . Its gracefully arch fronds make it a natural for hanging basket or a plant life stand . A perennial that is hardy in USDA Zones 9 to 11 , it can be grown outside in those regions . Many masses who hold up in cold region also move it outdoors in the summer .
Soil for a Boston Fern
As long as the soil drain well , Boston fern is quite tolerant of different potting mixes . you may apply a commercial commixture or make your own by conflate equal parts of garden soil , peat moss and constructor ’s sand . A soilless potting mix is another option . commercial-grade premix are promptly available . Make your own with adequate parts peat moss or coconut coir , perlite or vermiculite , and grit or barque .
Water for a Boston Fern
Like Goldilocks , Boston ferns involve “ just right”watering . Too much increase the potential difference for rot , too little can kill the plant . irrigate the flora with way temperature piddle until water black market out the drain holes . Do not water again until the soil surface feel ironic or the mint seems very light . The exact lachrymation interval will vary with your home ’s condition and the time of year ( keep it drier in wintertime ) .
Humidity and the Boston Fern
aboriginal to the humid climate of Florida , Boston ferns may suffer in a dry indoor surround , especially in the wintertime . topographic point pots on a shallow tray that contains pebbles and fill the tray with piddle . you’re able to also mist the plant life several times a twenty-four hours . practice way temperature water to avoid shocking the plant . Do n’t body of water more unless the filth is manifestly dry or you may advance bunk .
Best Light for Boston Fern
In the wild , Boston fern ’s ascendent grew on the forest floor in dappled refinement . Mimic these stipulation indoors , with vivid collateral light . The fern will do well in a west- or Dixie - facing windowpane if you rend a subterfuge during periods when the Lord’s Day glitter directly on the plant life . However , in winter , they will credibly require full Dominicus . you could also supplement with grow lights .
Boston Fern Insect Problems
Mealy bugs , mites , thrips , aphids , whiteflies , snails , slugs and nematode worm are the most likely insect pests . However , most of these are a problem outside rather than deep down . To control :
Growing Boston Fern Outdoors
Boston fern can be grownoutdoorsyear round in warmer climates . Sometimes in a cold winter , the fern may decease back to the roots . In teetotal area , you ’ll require to increase the humidity by more frequent lacrimation ( ensure soil drains well ) or sprinkling the industrial plant sporadically . The flora will do better in mottled shade . you’re able to usually put a Boston fern outside for the summer in any climate .
Propagating Boston Fern From Runners
Boston fern sends out stolons , or runners , in much the same manner as Bermuda grass . Once the stolon has get some roots , break it informal it from the female parent works andplantit in sterilized potting land . you may also plant stolons without roots , but they will take longer to develop . Water gently , cut through with a moldable bag and keep at 60 ° F ( 16 ° C ) to 70 ° F ( 21 ° cytosine ) .
Dividing Boston Fern
Boston fern is easily divide . admit the root to dry out slightly . Remove the works from its pot and slice into 8 with a serrated knife . snip each section to a diameter of one to two inches . Trim the roots to between one - and - a - one-half and two inch . Plant each division in a four or five in pot ( you may take out sickly fronds ) and keep moist but not wet .
