Boston Fern

Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis'

Overview

Uses: Houseplant, office plant, or outdoor plant (in appropriate climates)

Benefits: Lush, green fronds create a vibrant and fresh atmosphere. Air-purifying qualities make it an excellent choice for improving indoor air quality. Ideal for hanging baskets or standing planters due to its gracefully arching fronds.

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 - 11 (as an outdoor perennial)

Sun: Indirect light or partial shade. Thrives in a spot that receives filtered light; too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.

Life Cycle: Perennial

Mature Height: Up to 3 feet (tends to grow in a lush, bushy shape)

Mature Width: Up to 3 feet (fronds can spread out widely)

Bloom Season: Rarely blooms

Summary

The Nephrolepis exaltata, more commonly known as the Boston Fern, is celebrated for its ability to purify indoor air and its ease of care. Its lush, feathery fronds add a touch of greenery and nature to any space, making it a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts.

Boston Ferns are known for their air-purifying properties, making them a healthy addition to homes and offices. Their preference for indirect light and ability to thrive in humid conditions make them particularly well-suited for bathrooms or kitchens.

Though primarily used as an indoor plant, Boston Ferns can also flourish outdoors in shaded areas within their hardiness zones. They make a striking addition to porches, patios, or as part of a shaded garden landscape.

With proper care, Boston Ferns can grow into voluminous, eye-catching plants that bring a piece of the outdoors inside.

Care

Boston Fern Care

Nephrolepis exaltata is considered low-maintenance, making it a popular choice for both new and experienced plant owners.

Regular watering is key to keeping your Boston Fern healthy; it prefers consistently moist soil but does not like to be waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Boston Ferns love humidity and will thrive in environments that mimic their natural tropical habitat. Regular misting is encouraged to maintain humidity levels, especially in dry conditions. Using a humidifier or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water can also help increase ambient humidity.

Position your Boston Fern in a location where it will receive plenty of indirect sunlight, such as near a north-facing window or in a room with bright, filtered light.

Temperature is another important factor for these ferns; they prefer a range between 60°F and 75°F. Avoid placing them in areas with cold drafts or direct heat sources.

Nephrolepis exaltata should be fertilized regularly during the growing season (spring through early fall) to promote healthy growth. Use our balanced slow release fertilizer for optimal results.

Soil should be rich, loose, and well-draining to support the health of your fern. Our potting soil is an excellent choice for repotting Boston Ferns.

To encourage a full and bushy plant, you can lightly trim or prune the fronds. This will not only maintain the desired shape but also encourage new growth.

Removing dead or yellowing fronds regularly will keep your fern looking its best and prevent potential pests or diseases.

Size

What Size Boston Ferns are for Sale Online?

The Nephrolepis exaltata that we sell online will ship in a greenhouse grade grow pot or hanging basket. Each plant will be appropriately sized for its container. Please contact us with any specific questions.

How Large Do Boston Ferns Grow?

The mature size of Nephrolepis exaltata is typically up to 3 feet in height and width, with a lush, full appearance.

Additional Information

Common Names of Nephrolepis exaltata

• Boston Fern

• Sword Fern

Toxicity and Risks of Boston Fern

Nephrolepis exaltata is considered safe and non-toxic for both pets and people, making it an ideal choice for households with animals or children.