Indoor Fern Care

(basic rules of thumb)

Found throughout the temperate and tropical world, often growing as epipyhtes in loose debris in nooks of branches and rocks

Position - in bright filtered light or partial shade away from direct sun. Those with darker, more leathery fronds tend to prefer more shade. Avoid drafts, and proximity to heaters

Water - when the soil surface has dried, always keeping the root ball just moist, not soggy Never allow pot to sit in water as roots will rot.

Humidity- maintain high. Sitting pots on damp pebbles will help. Bathrooms with natural diffused light are ideal

Feed - apply diluted liquid fertiliser once a month from spring to autumn

- Yellowing and drooping fronds usual indicate overwatering

- Brown crispy tips and margins indicate underwatering or insufficient humidity

- Potting mix should be rich in organic matter such as bark, keeping it loose and aerated as shallow roots love oxygen

- Prune off any decaying leaves to encourage fresh growth

- There are many different types suited to growing indoors and the specific cultural needs will vary slightly between them