Big fern plants transform spaces into lush, vibrant sanctuaries. Their impressive size and verdant foliage bring a touch of the natural world indoors or enhance outdoor landscapes.
Popular Big Fern Varieties
Many large fern varieties suit home or garden environments, each with distinct traits. The Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’) is a classic, known for long, arching, feathery fronds extending several feet, creating a full, bushy appearance. Its delicate, cascading leaves suit hanging baskets and elevated displays.
The Kimberly Queen Fern (Nephrolepis obliterata), or Australian Sword Fern, has an upright habit with broader, sword-shaped fronds, maintaining a tidy look. It is more resilient and tolerant than the Boston Fern, suitable for less demanding care. Bird’s Nest Ferns (Asplenium nidus) are distinct with undivided, glossy, bright green fronds emerging from a central rosette, forming a bowl. These ferns grow large, with fronds reaching two to five feet and a spread of over two feet.
Staghorn Ferns (Platycerium species) are unique epiphytes, growing on other plants or structures. They produce two frond types: flat, shield-like basal fronds for anchoring and nutrient gathering, and green, antler-shaped fertile fronds. Australian Tree Ferns (Sphaeropteris cooperi) are large, developing a single trunk 15 to 30 feet tall with a 10 to 12-foot canopy. Their large, lacy fronds create a tropical feel, making them striking specimens for shaded outdoor areas in warmer climates.
Essential Care for Big Ferns
Light Needs
Ferns prefer indirect or filtered light, mimicking their natural forest floor habitat. Direct sunlight scorches delicate fronds, causing browning or fading. Place them near an eastern or northern window, or in a dappled light spot. While some varieties tolerate lower light, consistent bright, indirect illumination supports robust growth.
Watering Practices
Consistent soil moisture is important for ferns; they do not tolerate drying out. Soil should remain evenly moist but never waterlogged, which causes root rot. Check the top inch or two for dryness before watering. Water at the plant’s base to ensure water reaches roots and avoid splashing foliage, which encourages fungal issues.
Humidity Requirements
High humidity is key for most ferns. Many thrive in humidity levels consistently above 60%, often higher than typical indoor environments. To increase humidity, mist foliage daily, use a pebble tray, or a room humidifier. Grouping ferns with other plants also creates a localized microclimate with higher moisture.
Soil and Potting
Well-draining soil rich in organic matter is ideal for big ferns. A mix with peat moss, perlite, or other components that retain moisture while allowing drainage is suitable. When potting, select a container with adequate drainage holes to prevent root water accumulation. Pot size should accommodate the fern’s root ball, allowing growth without being excessively large, which can lead to overly wet soil.
Fertilization
Ferns are not heavy feeders and are sensitive to over-fertilization. During the growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20 or 10-10-10 NPK) diluted to half strength every four to six weeks. For outdoor ferns, a slow-release fertilizer or compost in spring is sufficient. Reduce or stop fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Ferns may show distress, often due to environmental conditions. Browning frond tips or crispy edges indicate insufficient humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing humidity via misting or pebble trays, and ensuring consistently moist (not soggy) soil, alleviates symptoms. Yellowing leaves suggest overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Adjusting watering and checking drainage resolves overwatering, while diluted fertilizer addresses nutrient needs.
Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects affect ferns. Spider mites, thriving in dry conditions, are deterred by increased humidity and periodic water sprays. For localized mealybug or scale, manual removal with an alcohol-dipped cotton swab proves effective. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil are used for widespread issues, but ensure safety for ferns due to chemical sensitivity.
Ideal Placement and Display Tips
Considering mature size is important for fern placement. For indoor ferns, a location providing ample space for fronds to spread without constant brushing is best. Large specimens serve as striking floor plants, while cascading varieties like Boston ferns suit hanging baskets or plant stands for graceful draping.
Aesthetically, big ferns soften architectural lines and add a natural, organic feel to a room or garden. Placing them in corners or against blank walls creates a lush focal point. Outdoors, especially for tree ferns, consider locations where mature height and spread won’t interfere with structures or overhead lines. Their indirect light preference means they thrive in shaded patios, under tree canopies, or on north-facing balconies, enhancing visual appeal.