Fern Care: Boston, Button, Crocodile + More
Boston fern (Nephrolepis), button fern (Pellaea), crocodile fern (Microsorum), blue star fern (Phlebodium) and more
At a glance
| βοΈ Light | Medium indirect. No direct sun. |
|---|---|
| π§ Water | Keep evenly moist. Never let it dry out completely (button fern is the exception). |
| πͺ΄ Soil | Moisture-holding: our Tropical Potting Mix. |
| π‘οΈ Temp | 15β26Β°C. |
| π¨ Humidity | Higher is better. |
| πΎ Pets | Pet safe True ferns are non-toxic to cats and dogs. (Asparagus "ferns" aren't true ferns and are toxic.) |
| π± Care level | Moderate Pet safe |
| π Grows to | 20β60 cm. |
Ferns bring soft, lush texture to a room and are safe for pets. Most want what a forest floor gives them: filtered light, moist soil and humid air. Get the watering right and they're not as fussy as their reputation.
Light + placement
Medium, indirect light is best: near a north or east window, or a few metres from a brighter one. Direct sun crisps the fronds. Bathrooms with a window are a classic spot.
Watering
Most ferns like evenly moist soil, like a wrung-out sponge. Check every few days and water when the surface just starts to dry. Once a Boston fern dries out completely, it drops a lot of fronds. Button ferns are the exception: let them dry a bit more between waterings.
Soil + repotting
A moisture-holding mix like our Tropical Potting Mix, in a pot that drains. Repot in spring when roots fill the pot. Crocodile and blue star ferns like a chunkier, airier mix.
Feeding + upkeep
Feed monthly from April to September at half strength. Snip off brown or crispy fronds at the base. Group ferns together or use a humidifier in winter.
Common problems
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Crispy, brown fronds | Dry soil or dry air | Water more often; raise humidity. |
| Lots of dropped leaflets | Dried out once | Trim the dead fronds; keep the soil evenly moist and new ones will grow. |
| Yellow, mushy base | Soggy soil | Water less; make sure the pot drains. |
| Pale, bleached fronds | Too much sun | Move to indirect light. |
| Little flies around the soil | Fungus gnats | See How to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats. |
Varieties we carry
These ferns share the same basic care. Maidenhair, bird's nest, staghorn and rabbit's foot ferns get their own guides. Only what's in stock online right now is shown.
Frequently asked questions
Are ferns safe for cats and dogs?
True ferns like Boston, button and bird's nest ferns are non-toxic. Asparagus "ferns" are not true ferns and are toxic.
Why is my fern dropping so many leaves?
Almost always it dried out. Keep the soil evenly moist.
Can ferns live in a bathroom?
Yes, if there's a window. The humidity is perfect for them.
Which fern is easiest?
Blue star and crocodile ferns are the most forgiving indoors.
Ferns care kit
- Tropical Potting Mix: Our all-round Soil Bar mix for leafy tropicals.
- Moisture Meter Β· $14.99: Tells you when the bottom of the pot is actually dry.
- Sticky Traps: Catches fungus gnats before they multiply.
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
More plant care guides
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