Nephrolepis exaltata

How to Grow Boston Fern

Boston Ferns are popular indoors with their long lacy fronds. They prefer slightly humid conditions and a well-lit, protected position, so get these growing conditions right and you'll have a lovely indoor fern all year round. They can also be grown in the garden making them quite a versatile plant.

Indoors in a warm, well-lit spot away from direct sunlight or outdoors in a warm, shady frost-protected position.

Regular watering.

Well drained/sandy soil.

Suitable for growing all year round.

How to grow boston fern in a pot

Step 1

Choose a pot that is at least twice the size of the selected plant. Position in a shaded spot in the garden or choose a position indoors that receives indirect sunlight. Protect from strong winds.

Step 2

Fill chosen pot with a premium quality potting mix, such as Yates Premium Potting Mix.

Step 3

Position in the pot and backfill with potting mix, gently firming down. Water in well.

Step 4

Feed every 2 weeks with Yates Thrive All Purpose Liquid Plant Food to promote strong root development and healthy foliage growth

How to grow boston fern in a garden

Step 1

Choose a well-lit but shaded spot in the garden and prepare the planting area by digging in compost and Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser.

Step 2

Dig a hole in the prepared area, place the plant in the bottom of the planting hole, gently backfill around the plant's root ball with soil then water in well.

Step 3

Mulch with an organic mulch, such as bark chips, sugar cane or pea straw and water in well.

Step 4

Apply Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser around the root zone every 8 weeks from spring until mid-autumn to promote good soil health.

Growing tips

Soak the pot in water once a month to make sure the potting mix is well hydrated. Do not overwater your Boston Fern. Test the soil with a bare finger, if it feels dry then water it.
Dust the leaves regularly using a soft brush. Dust can clog up the pores of the leaves and make it difficult for the leaves to function properly.
Lightly prune in winter to keep the plant 'tidy' as desired.