With its lush, arching fronds the Boston fern stays green year-round and cleans the air. It asks a little more than the average plant — but rewards you with a lavish, living display in the bathroom.
Origin and natural habitat
Nephrolepis exaltata grows wild in humid forests and swamps from Florida down through Central and South America. Often epiphytic, it perches on tree branches where humidity is high and light is filtered through the canopy.
Care
Light
Indirect light or half shade is best — a north-facing window or a spot a couple of metres from a bright window. Direct sun dries out the fronds.
Watering
Keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy — water when the surface begins to dry, usually once or twice a week. Mist the fronds regularly with tepid water, especially in winter when indoor air is dry.
Soil and feeding
Use moisture-retentive but airy soil based on peat or coir. Feed every second week in summer with diluted fertiliser. Divide or repot every spring or two.
Common problems
Brown, crispy frond tips almost always mean air that is too dry — mist more or use a humidity tray. Yellowing inner fronds are natural ageing; cut them off at the base. Spider mites appear in dry heat — counter with regular misting.
Good to know
The Boston fern holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit and was a fixture of Victorian conservatories — often placed in windows as both decoration and air freshener.
