Boston Fern Care: Benefits, Propagation, and Pest Control Guide

• The Boston fern is also known as the common fern and its scientific name is Nephrolepis exaltata.
• It is a type of fern that purifies the environment and is very easy to care for.
• It boasts long fronds, which are the fern’s leaves, subdivided and arching downwards, creating beautiful curves.
• These leaves have a central axis from which small leaves extend on both sides: larger near the roots and much smaller at the tip.
• It has a soft light green color.

• Also known as the parlor fern, the Boston fern traditionally grew under the shade of large trees, which is why it requires generous shade and thrives as an indoor plant. Although resilient, it can also adapt to outdoor gardens as long as it is shielded from direct sunlight and given good shade.
• The ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 77°F. Direct drafts or temperatures that fluctuate significantly, especially during its reproduction phase, should be avoided.
• When considering where to place the Boston fern, aim for a shaded corner with filtered light, away from direct sun rays.

• It is recommended that the soil for the Boston fern be nutrient-rich with good drainage. A suitable mix could include one part leaf mold peat and one part coarse sand. An extra tip is to create a layer of coarse gravel at the bottom of the pot to prevent oversaturation.
• For fertilization, apply it only during spring and summer since it is not recommended at other times of the year. A diluted general liquid fertilizer should be given every two weeks in small doses.

The most significant property of the Boston fern is its ability to purify air. Having a Boston fern at home substantially improves indoor air quality. During photosynthesis, the fern absorbs various pollutants such as carbon dioxide, formaldehyde, and benzene, processing them and releasing clean oxygen to benefit the household environment.

This plant requires significant humidity, so it can be in small quantities. Additionally, using a spray bottle to mist the leaves is beneficial. Another effective method is to place some stones and water in the tray under the pot; this way, the fern maintains moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Pruning is only necessary when there is browning of the leaves, indicating they are about to fall. You may also choose to prune fronds that are sparse, as they may no longer produce new growth and are sapping energy from the plant.

Below, we explain how to reproduce the Boston fern. There are two methods: natural reproduction and division.

• This type of fern does not reproduce through seeds; rather, it reproduces via spores. These spores appear as small dark dots on the undersides of the fronds. Soros, which are clusters of spores, develop there. Spores do not require pollinators like other ferns; once matured, they are released by the plant and can produce new seedlings if they land in suitable soil. A single Boston fern can produce millions of viable spores.
• The division method involves carefully separating a section of the existing plant, including its roots, and planting it in a new pot. Be sure to follow the soil recommendations detailed earlier to avoid waterlogging for this new plant.

• The Boston fern may suffer from root rot, which occurs from overwatering, and leaf spot, which appears when the plant is overly humid with insufficient ventilation.
• Common pests include mealybugs, dust mites, and various fungi. These can typically be controlled using appropriate chemical treatments available at garden supply stores.