I HAVE never met anyone who doesn’t like ferns; I have, however, met many people who can’t keep a fern alive.

Ferns are among one of the oldest living plants on earth, grow just about all over the world and they are loved as a houseplant all over the world.

I’ve had my fair share of disasters with ferns over the years, vowing to myself to stop buying them, but I’m stubborn and a plant will not get the best of me.

The problem is that there are so many beautiful ferns out there that trying to keep away from them is impossible. The good news is I have picked up a few tips over the years that have helped with my love of being a fern owner.

Here is a break-down of go-to tips on how to take care of your ferns:

Ferns like to see the sky, not the sun

Give your fern indirect light, opposite a window or under taller plants works well.

Water is your friend

Ferns like to be kept moist, but not soaking, and don’t like to sit in water. Always water from the top rather than letting the plant soak up water from the base. Ferns have sensitive roots that rot quickly.

Humidity is a must

Not that easy to do in homes that have central heating. Ferns love bathrooms and kitchens. If that’s not possible, try spraying your plant with tepid water a few times a week or sit your plant on a bed of pebbles. Fill a tray with pebbles and add some water.

Cool temperatures

All my ferns do better in the coldest rooms of my house. I keep the central heating lower in the bathroom as that’s where my ferns do the best.

Feed once a month

Use a good fertiliser once a month to ensure healthy growth.

Their are some beautiful ferns out there and a lot more options than the Boston and asparagus fern which seems to be the common ones in garden centres.

Here’s a list of some of my favourites:

  • Boston fern (Nephrolepis Exaltata)
  • Asparagus fern (Asparagus Aethiopicus)
  • Blue star fern (Phlebodium Aureum)
  • Stag horn fern (Platycerium)
  • Mother fern (Asplenium Parvati)
  • Rabbit foot fern (Davallia Fejeensis)

Ferns are up there with air purification, which is always a bonus, but on the down-side some are toxic to animals – so check that your favourite isn’t one of these.

I hope this information has helped if you are currently at war with your ferns or maybe it’s changed your mind and you’re ready to give these gorgeous plants another go?

Until next time, planters.

Plant One On Me is at 11 Upper Millergate, Bradford BD1 1SX, part of the Sunbridge Wells complex.

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