Ferns, such as the Boston or Kimberly Queen, bring a tropical beauty to any space when suspended. Their dense, bright green fronds create a striking visual element that utilizes vertical space effectively. Successfully hanging and maintaining these plants requires attention to the structural security of the mount and the specific environmental needs of the fern. This guide provides the practical steps and care details necessary to ensure your hanging fern remains vibrant and thriving.
Selecting the Ideal Location
A thriving fern begins with proper placement, as these plants evolved in humid, shaded forest environments. They require bright, indirect light, which mimics the filtered canopy conditions of their native habitat. Direct sun, particularly harsh afternoon rays, will quickly scorch the fronds and lead to browning. East-facing windows, or a few feet from south or west-facing windows, often provide the necessary light without the intensity.
Temperature stability is important, with an ideal range between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Ferns are sensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations and cold air, so place them away from exterior doors, air conditioning vents, or heating registers. These tropical plants benefit from high humidity, which can be provided by misting the fronds or using a small room humidifier.
Gathering the Hanging Hardware
Before installation, gather the components that will safely support the plant’s weight, which increases after watering. You will need a sturdy hanging container, such as a wire basket or plastic pot, equipped with a drainage hole to prevent root rot. Choose a strong hanger system, like a macrame holder or galvanized wire, securely attached to the pot. The final item is the ceiling hardware designed for the weight of your plant and the material of your ceiling.
For securing into wooden joists, a heavy-duty screw hook is the most reliable option, as it threads directly into the structural support. If hanging a medium-to-heavy fern from drywall where no joist is available, a metal toggle bolt with a hook is necessary. Toggle bolts feature spring-loaded wings that expand behind the drywall, distributing the load and securing the anchor. Check the weight rating of your chosen hook system and select one that exceeds the anticipated weight of your fully watered fern.
Securing the Fern
The first step is identifying the ceiling structure to ensure a safe mount. Use a stud finder to locate a solid ceiling joist, which provides the most secure foundation for planters. Drill a pilot hole slightly narrower than the screw hook’s shaft directly into the center of the joist. Twist the screw hook firmly into the pilot hole until the base is flush with the ceiling.
If a joist is not accessible, mark a spot in the hollow drywall and drill a hole sized to accommodate the toggle bolt’s compressed wings. Push the wings through the hole until they spring open inside the ceiling cavity, then tighten the bolt until the anchor is secure against the drywall. Once the hook is installed, carefully lift the fern, which is heaviest when the soil is moist, and secure its hanger onto the hook. Confirm the pot is balanced on the hanger to prevent shifting.
Ongoing Maintenance for Hanging Ferns
Hanging planters dry out more quickly than floor plants due to increased air circulation around the container. To keep the soil consistently moist, which ferns require, take the plant down from its hook for watering. This allows for a thorough, deep soak, accomplished by setting the entire basket into a bucket of water for up to 30 minutes until the soil is saturated. After soaking, allow the excess water to fully drain out of the drainage holes before rehanging, preventing the roots from sitting in standing water.
The fronds of a hanging fern naturally grow toward the light source, leading to uneven growth over time. To encourage a balanced, symmetrical canopy, rotate the plant 90 degrees every one to two weeks. This ensures all sides of the plant receive equal light exposure. Regularly inspect the fern for any brown or yellowed fronds, which are spent or damaged. Pruning these away at the base allows the fern to redirect energy toward healthy new growth, maintaining its vibrant appearance.