Bird's Nest Fern Care
Asplenium nidus (including 'Victoria' and twisted forms)
At a glance
| βοΈ Light | Low to medium indirect. |
|---|---|
| π§ Water | When the top 2β3 cm is dry. Water the soil, not the centre. |
| πͺ΄ Soil | Airy: Tropical mix with bark. |
| π‘οΈ Temp | 16β27Β°C. |
| π¨ Humidity | Average to high. |
| πΎ Pets | Pet safe Non-toxic to cats and dogs. |
| π± Care level | Easy Pet safe Low light OK |
| π Grows to | 30β60 cm across. |
Bird's nest ferns grow glossy, wavy fronds from a central rosette that looks like a nest. They're one of the easiest ferns to grow indoors: happier with lower light and less fussy about humidity than most ferns, and safe for pets.
Light + placement
Low to medium indirect light is ideal. Direct sun yellows and burns the fronds; very dark spots slow growth.
Watering
Water when the top 2β3 cm of soil is dry. Water around the edge of the pot, not into the centre of the rosette; water sitting in the 'nest' can rot new fronds.
Soil + repotting
An airy, well-draining mix: our Tropical Potting Mix with some bark. In nature they grow on trees, so they like air at the roots. Repot every 2 years.
Feeding + upkeep
Feed monthly from April to September at half strength. Don't touch the new fronds as they unfurl; they bruise easily. Wipe dust gently from mature fronds. The brown dots on the undersides of mature fronds are spores, not pests.
Common problems
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Brown, mushy centre | Water sitting in the rosette | Water around the edge only; let it dry. |
| Brown, crispy edges | Dry air or underwatering | Raise humidity; water consistently. |
| Yellow, pale fronds | Too much sun | Move to lower, indirect light. |
| Rows of brown dots under fronds | Spores (normal) | Nothing to fix. |
| Damaged new fronds | Handled while unfurling | Leave new fronds alone. |
Varieties we carry
We carry the classic bird's nest fern and ruffled forms like 'Victoria'. Only what's in stock online right now is shown.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bird's nest fern good for low light?
Yes, it's one of the best ferns for lower light.
Is it safe for pets?
Yes. It's non-toxic to cats and dogs.
What are the brown lines under the leaves?
Spores. They're how ferns reproduce and are completely normal.
How is it different from other ferns?
It's sturdier and less humidity-hungry. See Fern Care for other types.
Bird's Nest Fern care kit
- Tropical Potting Mix: Our all-round Soil Bar mix for leafy tropicals.
- Bark: Mix in for extra drainage and air around the roots.
- Moisture Meter Β· $14.99: Tells you when the bottom of the pot is actually dry.
Bring your plant (or a photo) to 515 Chatham St #103 and we'll take a look. Open 11β5, 7 days a week, with street parking nearby. Get directions β
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