How to look after ferns indoors
Ferns are a beautiful and diverse plant that requires little care, but can grow to be quite large. Ferns are some of the oldest plants in the world and are found in a number of different environments. They have been in cultivation for centuries. Collectively, there are estimated to be 12,000 types of ferns in the world made up of a number of species which range from cold hardy to tropical. They come in a variety of sizes from miniature to extremely large. This article will discuss the best way to care for them indoors, so you can enjoy their beauty for years to come!
Humidity
Ferns need plenty of humidity, which can be created in many ways. The fern’s leaves will turn brown and drop if the plant is kept in too dry a place.
Ferns need moderate moisture and should be kept in areas of low moisture. In living rooms, a better option is to put trays of damp pebbles or clay granules next to the pots for them to live on. They also enjoy being misted with tepid water regularly. You can also control the humidity by using a humidifier.
Compost/Soil
You need to choose a compost for your fern that adheres to the specified growing conditions that Ferns are comfromatible growing in for example forest floors. Ferns require light and slow draining topsoil with plenty of decayed vegetable matter that supplies the plant with the nutrients it needs.
With this specific type of plant, you need to use compost that is free draining so the roots never get waterlogged. It should also be loamy, which means it has plenty of sand and peat or a fibrous peat substitute. The goal is to keep the plant moist in a dry environment with warm weather (but not too hot).
Light
A fern, while typically found in moist, shady locations and the forest floor, can grow well in environments that provide light and dappled shade. Positioning a fern near a window will provide it with the proper amount of light during different times of day. They should be kept away from direct sunlight during the summer, which will cause them to turn yellow or lose their leaves.
Temperature
The temperature a fern thrives in depends on the species. As a rule of thumb most ferns don’t thrive in colder climates or enjoy any form of cold spells. Tropical ferns desire temperatures around 60-70 F (16-21 C). Temperate ferns do well in temperate climates, around 50-60 F (10-16 C).
Fertilizing your plants
Fertilizing your plants is an important part of keeping them healthy. There are a lot of different fertilizers available, so it’s important to find one that is specifically for ferns. Some common fertilizers for ferns include:
– ammonia
– fish emulsion
– liquid plant food
– seaweed extract
– compost
The most important thing to remember when fertilizing your plants is to use just the right amount. Overfertilization can cause your plants to become unhealthy and may even kill them. Try using a calibrated soil test kit to determine the correct amount of fertilizer to use for your plants. During the winter, don’t feed your ferns because they hibernate. In order to keep the air around your ferns moist, mist them frequently.
If you are looking for a plant food that is ideal for Ferns we advise Growlands Houseplant Food, this plant food is designed with a balanced formulation of NPK and balanced seaweed extract and will ensure that your ferns stay healthy. To use Growlands House Plant food on ferns, spray the plant one per week with a light coverage and do not use it in the winter months.
Repotting
Repotting a fern is an essential part of keeping it healthy and thriving. Follow these steps to repot a fern:
1. Remove the old pot from the fern.
2. Fill a large pot with fresh soil and place the fern in the center.
3. Gently push the roots into the new soil and water well.
4. Keep the plant watered until it begins to show signs of new growth, usually within a week or two.
What to consider before purchasing ferns
Before you purchase ferns, there are a few things you should consider. First, make sure you have the space to accommodate them. Ferns require plenty of sunlight and space to grow, so be sure to pick a plant that fits your space. Another thing to keep in mind is the type of fern you’re purchasing. There are three main types of ferns: hardy, semi-hardy, and tender. Hardy ferns can take some frostbitten conditions, while semi-hardy ferns may only tolerate light frost damage. Tender ferns cannot tolerate frost at all and will die if taken outside during winter.
Once you’ve decided on the type of fern you’re purchasing and the size of it, it’s time to decide what type of pot you’ll need for it. Most ferns like well-drained soil that isn’t too coarse or rocky. It’s important to have all the pre-requirements in place before purchasing new plants.
5 Care Tips For Growing Ferns Indoors
1. Keep your ferns in a well-lit area with plenty of moisture.
2. Water your plants regularly, using a gentle stream from the bottom of the pot. Don’t let the water sit in the pot for long periods of time – ferns like to drench their roots quickly!
3. Fertilize sparingly with a low-nitrogen all-purpose fertilizer – ferns are not as demanding as other plants when it comes to nutrients.
4. Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot or fungal growth. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
5. Prune your ferns periodically to control height and encourage fresh new growth. Ferns that are overgrown may need to be divided in half or even ripped out and replaced with new plants
Conclusion
Ferns are one of the easiest plants to care for indoors. All you need is a pot with ample drainage and a sunny spot, and you can start growing ferns right away. There are different types of ferns that require different amounts of sunlight, so be sure to research which variety will fit best in your home before buying it. Once you have your fern pot set up, water it regularly and fertilize it every week with a Growlands houseplant fertilizer. Keep an eye out for pests like mites or aphids, but otherwise fern care should be relatively simple. Give the tips mentioned in this guide on how to care for ferns indoors a try next time you want to add some greenery to your home!