Boston fern

(Nephrolepis exaltata `Bostoniensis')

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Long green weeping fronds arise from the crown at the soil surface. Fronds are variously cut.

FOLIAGE COLORS:

Green

CONTAINER:

Small planter (hanging basket, terrariums), small container.

LIGHT:

High. Full sun (unless noted differently in "COMMENTS"), filtered light, south window, atrium, thousands of footcandles.

WATER:

Frequent. Water thoroughly, keep soil evenly moist to touch (not saturated). Don't let sit in water.

TEMPERATURE:

Cool - medium. 50 - 70 (degrees F) days, 45 - 65 nights.

HUMIDITY:

High

FERTILIZER:

Every 3 months. Don't fertilize newly purchased plant.

SOIL MIX:

1 part sterilized garden loam, 1 part clean coarse sand or Perlite, and 1/2 to 1 part sphagnum peat moss.

PROPOGATION:

Division

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely, healthy plant free from insect and disease damage. New leaf growth is desirable. Avoid those with yellow or brown leaf margins.

CARE:

Moderate. Lives well under average home conditions. Attractive with moderate maintenance.

OTHER CULTIVARS:

Many cultivars are available which have leaves that are variously cut.

PROBLEMS:

Root rot: Provide adequate drainage. Do not let plant sit in water.
Weak, spindly growth: Move plant to brighter location.

COMMENTS:

Do not put in direct sun. Needs fresh air. Dots on back of leaves are spores, not scale. Never cover crown with soil. Usually used in hanging basket.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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