Nephrolepis cordifolia aka Boston Fern

Taxonomy

Nephrolepis cordifolia, also known as fishbone fern, tuberous sword fern, tuber ladder fern, erect sword fern, narrow sword fern, ladder fern and herringbone fern, is a wood fern native to the global tropics, including northeastern Australia and Asia. The two types of leaves, fertile and sterile, are pinnate and have many lanceolate leaflets. It has rhizomes that are mostly orange, sometimes pale-brown, and it produces small underground tubers. Native to the Hawaiian Islands where it is known as kupukupu, okupukupu or ni'ani'au, this fern has been introduced to several habitats where it has become an invasive species, such as New Zealand and Florida. It’s perfect for growing indoors, as it is easy to care for and gives off a lemon scent that will “refresh” your home. To protect local ecosystems, particularly if you live in a warm, tropical climate, it is suggested to grow this plant only indoors.

Common names

Boston Fern, Narrow Swordfern, Tuber Ladder Fern, Narrow Sword Fern, Ladder Fern

How to care for Boston Fern

Difficulty

Boston Fern requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Soil

When growing Boston Fern, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Narrow Swordfern with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Boston Fern from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Ladder Fern regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Boston Fern will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Boston Fern prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Boston Fern to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Boston Fern is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Fertilizer

The Boston Fern should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

The Boston Fern is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.

Region of origin

Boston Fern’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia