Questions We Are Often Asked: Boston Ferns

When the question is raised, “How do you look after a fern?” the inquirer is almost always asking about the care and culture of Boston Ferns, Nephrolepis exaltata bostoniensis. This old time houseplant has fronds up to three feet long that droop gracefully. It is less stiff and formal than the species type which ranges from Florida to Brazil, through Africa, southern Asia, and down into Australia. Since in the garden or wild, ferns are usually found flourishing in heavy shade, it is often assumed they will grow under similar conditions in the home. This is the first error. Boston Ferns enjoy filtered light, to the side of a south or west facing window, even suspended in an east or north window. With care, it is possible to raise such ferns close under artificial light such an the energy-saving “curly” neon bulbs.

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Outdoors, ferns may grow in damp soil but rarely in that which is waterlogged. Likewise, in the house do not overwater as this will cause the fronds to turn yellow and drop. Dry air can also cause similar havoc. If possible, treat to a weekly hearty shower of tepid water in the kitchen sink or even bathtub, and then allow to drain before returning to the fern’s usual position. Fertilize regularly but with some caution. An organic-based plant food such as Wilson’s ‘Muskie’ may be used every two to four weeks, spring through into late fall. Do not attempt to repot until the roots have entirely filled the container. The best time to divide a vigorous plant is in late spring or early summer. Use a light, organic-based growing medium such as ‘ProMix.’ When content with its situation Boston Ferns tend to throw down stolons, or ‘runners.’ If these contact another soil in another container they may form new plants. The parent plant does not bear spores. Any of the numerous selections may also appear in stores, including a compact form, N. e. b. compacta and N. e. b. ‘Fluffy Ruffles,’ both of which tend to have more stiff and upright fronds. “The Boston fern felt too common, tainted by the association with podiatrists’ offices and food-court planters,” opined Michael Tortorello in the New York Times. Then he went out and bought one, joining other pteridophytes who have been fern fanatics ever since the great days of pterodomania back in the 1860s.