Welcome to the wonderful world of ferns! These prehistoric wonders have been working their magic on Earth for millions of years, and it's easy to see why they've stood the test of time. From the dense undergrowth of misty forests to cosy corners of our homes and offices, ferns bring a touch of that wild, natural whimsy to wherever they unfurl their fronds.

Native to forests and moist habitats, these delicate green charmers have mastered the art of thriving in dappled light and humid conditions. Whether you're drawn to the dramatic Macho Fern, the delicate Maidenhair, or the quirky Bird's Nest Fern, there's a perfect frilly friend for every plant parent.

Indoors, ferns add that splash of lush texture and vibrant green that can transform any space into a botanical paradise. But here's the thing – these ancient lovelies have some specific care requirements. Understanding their needs - from light and water to humidity, temperature, and nutrients - is key to keeping them flourishing and fabulous.

Ready to dive deeper into the fascinating world of ferns? Let's explore what makes these prehistoric pretties tick and how to keep them thriving in your space.

What Makes a Fern a Fern?

Ferns are among the planet's most ancient plant groups, with a history spanning more than 360 million years. Their distinctive biological features make them stand out from other types of plants. Unlike flowering plants, ferns do not produce seeds or flowers. Instead, they reproduce via spores, typically that weird black spotting, found on the underside of their fronds, which are specialised leaves. These spores are released into the air and, under the right conditions, grow into new plants. Ferns also have something called a rhizome, which are underground stems from which their roots and fronds emerge.

The unfurling of new fronds, known as "fiddleheads" is another distinctive and unique feature of ferns. These young fronds unroll as they grow, giving ferns their graceful, arching appearance. Ferns also vary in habitat; while most are terrestrial and grow in soil, some are epiphytic, meaning they grow on other plants or structures without drawing nutrients from them.

FUN FACT: The Osmunda regalis, or the Royal Fern, is believed to be one of the first species to have been formally identified and described in historical botanical literature. Their ancient lineage and unique life cycle, and proposed medicinal uses make these ferns both fascinating and resilient plants.

A little tangent about the Royal Fern 

Osmunda regalis, was among the first ferns to be formally identified due to its distinctive appearance and widespread distribution across Europe, where botany found its roots as a science (Thanks,Theophrastus you Greek Green Lover!). Though the fern's name may have a germanic back ground, and could be traced back to “Osmund” for the German God Thor, which the word translates to “Clean Mouth”. This is all speculation of course.

Its large, elegant fronds can grow up to a whopping: 2 meters tall, and its fertile fronds bear striking spore-bearing structures, making it a visually unique species. These features made it easily recognisable by early botanists.

They’ve even found family fossils of this majestic ferny monster that date back to around 290 to 248 million years ago.

Historically, the Royal Fern was prized not just for its beauty but also for its uses in traditional medicine and practical applications. The plant's fibrous rootstock, called "osmundine," was used in horticulture as a lightweight potting material, especially for growing orchids, as it helps retain moisture while providing good aeration for roots. Medicinally, parts of the royal fern were used in folk remedies, believed to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, as well as beauty, where it was used to clean your mouth.

Additionally, Osmunda regalis was one of the first ferns mentioned in early botanical literature due to its prominence in European landscapes and gardens. Its majestic appearance and utility made it a noteworthy plant for identification, study, and use by early botanists and herbalists alike.

How to grow Lush Ferns 

Ideal Light for Fern Plants

Before we get into lighting for ferns, let's clear up one of the biggest plant parent mistakes: thinking these gorgeous greens are low-light lovers. While ferns can tolerate darker spots for a while, they actually need adequate bright, indirect light to really thrive and show off those fabulous fronds! 

In nature, ferns are usually forest floor superstars, perfectly adapted to the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy above. This is your perfect lighting blueprint! Pop your fern somewhere bright but protected from those harsh direct rays. Think east-facing windows or a few steps back from a west-facing spot where the sun barrels in during the afternoons.

Watch your fern's body language: crispy brown edges or a pale-looking plant might mean too much direct sun, while sparse, bare growth suggests it's craving more light. Remember, the correct light equals beneficial photosynthesis, and that means a happy, healthy fern with lush, bouncy fronds!

Here are a few extra pointers to look out for when considering what lighting issues your Fern may be suffering from:

Signs your Fern is getting too much Light

• Bleached or faded fronds: When your fern looks like it's just been to a blood donor clinic, sporting pale, washed-out leaves, it's crying out for shade! This discolouration happens when chlorophyll breaks down (the lifeblood of plants) from excessive light exposure.
• Crispy brown edges: Those crispy, brittle edges on your fronds can often be attributed to high light levels. Just like us, ferns need sun protection! This typically starts at the tips and works its way inward. So, relocate if your fern is looking a little more like its 360 million-year-old counterparts instead of it’s fresh, young self.
• Small, stunted new growth: When new fronds emerge looking smaller, thinner than usual, and somewhat tough or leathery, your fern is in protective mode, trying to minimise surface area exposed to intense light.

Signs your fern isn't getting enough Light

• Yellowing fronds: When your fern starts turning yellow (and it's not just old age or that it’s on the heavy drink), it's likely struggling to produce enough chlorophyll due to insufficient light. Think of it as your fern running low on its green energy and reposition your beauty to a space with brighter filtered light.
• Leggy, sparse growth: If your fern is stretching out with long, spindly stems and fewer fronds than usual, it's literally reaching for more light. We have a fancy name for this “etiolation”. This is your fern's version of saying, "Help! I can’t reach the light switch; I need a helping hand!”.
• Slow or no new growth: When your fern looks like it did months ago, with little to no new fronds unfurling over weeks, it's likely not getting enough energy from the light it is provided to support new growth. A thriving fern should be regularly pushing out fresh fronds that are large, lush, and green. Relocate to assist with giving it a little boost.

Watering Fern Houseplants: 5 Top Tips

When it comes to the majority of Ferns, moisture is key, but soggy soil is a definite no-go zone. When doing your plant care routine, check the top few centimetres of soil with your finger - if it feels dry, it's time for a drink. 

Interestingly, not all ferns are moisture-demanding divas! Some varieties, like the beautiful yet tough-as-nails Cretan Brake Ferns and the quirky Staghorn and Rabbit's Foot Ferns, actually prefer their soil to be near dry between waterings. 

To really up your fern care game, try these 5 watering tips and watch your ferns flourish.

1. Keep the Soil Consistently Moist

Depending on the variety, ferns thrive in moist soil, but it should never be soggy. Water when the top few centimetres of soil feel dry to the touch. Consistency is key, so avoid letting the soil dry out completely, which can stress the plant and cause fronds to brown. 

2. Water Less in Winter

During the winter months, ferns' growth slows down, like all houseplants, requiring less water. Allow the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings during the cooler months, but don't let it dry out completely. Reduce watering frequency to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

3. Avoid Waterlogging

Ensure your fern's pot has proper drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom. Waterlogging can suffocate the roots and cause yellowing, severe root rot, and wilting fronds. Use well-draining soil that holds some moisture, and empty saucers after watering to prevent wet feet.

4. Use Room-Temperature Water

Cold water can shock your fern's roots, while hot water can cause damage. Always use room-temperature water to prevent stressing the plant and to maintain a balanced environment for optimal growth. This can be achieved by leaving your jug of water out overnight.

5. Use Filtered or Rainwater when possible

Tap water often contains chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can harm ferns over time. Whenever possible, use filtered or rainwater for watering. This provides your fern with pure water, free from potentially harmful additives that can cause brown tips and leaf crisp.

Ideal Humidity for Ferns: 4 Top Tips

Ferns, no matter the variety, adore high humidity, which is crucial for keeping these beauties looking pristine, as it mimics their natural habitat, low down in the canopy or up in cloud forests.

Aim for around 50% and higher around your ferns to keep them happy. This is easily achieved by either:

1. Placing a pebble tray under your fern

This is a tray filled with pebbles and half filled with water. Avoid allowing the drainage holes to sit in water, and top up the tray when it starts to empty.

2. Cluster plants together

Creating a delightful little group on plants will be both appealing to the eye and good for them. When clustering plants, their joint release of moisture into the air through transpiration will create a microclimate, keeping your ferns and any other tropical houseplants looking fab with little effort.

3. Place in your bathroom or Kitchen

These spaces are naturally higher in humidity, making them the ideal location for lush ferns. However, be sure that your kitchen or bathroom has enough light, or you may end up with other less desirable issues with your ferns.

4. Use a Humidifier
If you find your home or office’s air is on the drier side, then consider getting a humidifier. They are excellent for both enhancing your comfort in your home as well as keeping your houseplants and ferns looking fresh and fabulous.

Fertilising Your Fern

Ferns are the almond moms of the plant world, being relatively light feeders; with occasional feeding, they will grow full, lush, and green. Use a diluted liquid fertiliser (half strength) every 4–6 weeks during the growing season of spring through summer. Fertilising provides essential nutrients that your plant will need to promote healthy fronds, fuller growth, and strong root systems.

Ideal Temperature for Ferns

Ferns like it temperate. Generally preferring temperatures between 18°C and 24°C, average room temperature for most of us and your plants!. 

Be sure to avoid placing your ferns near cool breezes from windows and air conditioners or near heaters, as sudden temperature fluctuations can stress out your ferns. A key factor in maintaining the health of ferns throughout the year is temperature constancy.

Pruning Ferns

Pruning ferns is not a necessity, though it is a beneficial way to maintain the plant’s size, shape, and green appearance. Remove any dead or damaged fronds to help your plant focus energy on the plant's healthier sections and promote new growth. Regular pruning thins out your fern, which also improves air circulation within the fern’s foliage, which can prevent pest infestations such as mealybug.

Repotting Ferns

When it comes to ferns, you only really need to repot them every year or two during spring or when their roots start peeling out of the planter's drainage holes. When repotting, select a planter no larger than 3 cm to 5 cm bigger; ferns do not want a lot of room.

Use a well-draining potting mix that has some moisture-retentive qualities without becoming waterlogged. Below is a recipe for a self amended potting mix that will mimic your Ferns natural environment and provide the drainage and nutrients they need.

 

Fern Potting Mix Recipe

This recipe is enough to fill one 15 cm Grow Pot

• 1 Cup Palm Peat
• ¼ Cup Perlite
• ½ Compost
• ¼ Cup milled bark
• 1 tsp. dolomite Lime

What is dolomitic lime? Dolomite is a type of lime that contains calcium and magnesium, which provides plants with valuable nutrients and helps change the PH in soil when items degrade or are naturally acidic. This is important for Ferns as they do not handle acidic soils well.

Common Pests Found on Ferns

Ferns, like any houseplant, can occasionally attract pests. This is often when the plants are under some kind of stress from the environment. Eg: lack of humidity, too much water, etc. So be sure to check in on what may be causing stress in your plant when treating pests.

If you find pests on your ferns, it is important to treat the issue immediately. Quarantine your ferns to avoid further spread and treat with a quality organic pesticide, which will be gentle to your fern fronds, which are often delicate.

The most common pests to be found on your ferns will be mealybugs, which love the warm, humid conditions that ferns also prefer. So be sure to provide some good aircirculation to try to mitigate the ill effects that a lack of airflow can cause.

Ferns can, however, also be affected by spider mites and scale, which, when found, are often a sign of very dry air. Be sure to raise the humidity and water effectively and to treat these pests immediately.

6 Common Symptoms in Ferns 

• Yellowing Fronds: If it is the occasional yellow leaf, this is absolutely normal and part of the life cycle of most plants. Though if you are seeing frequent yellowing, then check the potting soil is not waterlogged, as yellowing is a sign of overwatering. If you find that the potting soil is super soggy, reduce your watering and allow the soil to reach near dryness before watering again. This will help your Fern recover from having wet feet.
• Crispy, Brown Fronds : this is a clear sign that your plant is either suffering from lack of humidity or potting soil that is staying too dry. This is easily fixed by raising the humidity with the tips provided above and by reassessing your watering frequency.
• Drooping or Wilting : This can be a sign of over- or underwatering. So the best approach is to check the potting soil. Make sure to water if the soil is feeling particularly dry, but avoid watering if the soil is wet. In the case of wet soil, make sure there is no water sitting in the base of the planter and that the soil is draining effectively, as drooping foliage with wet soil is a definite sign of possible root rot setting in. In this case, allow the soil to reach near-dry before watering again. Be careful not to re-pot, unless the potting soil is drenched, as this can cause severe stress in your plants.
• Pale or Faded Fronds: Lacklustre-looking fronds are often a sign of incorrect lighting. Fern fronds either turn pale when exposed to direct light or when they receive too little light, which affect chlorophyll production. The lifeblood of all plants. Check in on the lighting your fern is receiving and relocate to a more suitable position that will receive good-quality diffused light. This should help your fern thrive and give it back its lush green appearance.

• Stunted Growth: If your fern looks like it is stuck in suspended animation and just being without getting any larger, then your plant may be suffering from being rootbound or not getting enough nutrients. If your fern has been in the same planter for about 2 years, it may be time to repot it to replenish the soil and give your plant a little more space to grow. Also, be sure to feed regularly enough to provide your Ferns with the nutrients they need to grow. Be sure to feed once a month with a diluted feed formulated for ferns or any other houseplants.
• Leaf Spots or Mould: If you are noticing black spots on your fern foliage or mould forming on the leaves or soil, then your fern is likely suffering from a fungal infection. This is usually due to high humidity with a lack of airflow. Be sure to provide your ferns with adequate ventilation by opening a window, pruning back dense foliage, and balancing out your humidity levels. If your plants have fungal problems, cut off any badly infected leaves and throw them away. Do not add these leaves to your compost, as they will spread the disease. Spray your plant with a fungicide such as Copper Soap to treat the infection.

Transforming your interior with Ferns

Ferns are an incredible way to add texture, movement, and a delicacy to your interior design. Their ethereal fronds and evergreen lush appearance can transform any room into a serene oasis. Let’s explore some creative and stylish ways to add this versatile houseplant into your home and office.

TOP TIP: Remember to consider light conditions when positioning your ferns. Most varieties prefer bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. With proper placement and these styling tips, your ferns will not only survive but become stunning focal points in your space.

Create a lavish bathroom paradise

As humidity lovers, ferns adore the bathroom. Making this the ideal space to indulge in a ferny spa haven. Create depth and visual interest by mixing ferns of different sizes, textures, and subtle colour variations. For a curated collection that won't overwhelm your space, consider these charming compact varieties:

• Button Fern: Featuring delightfully round, emerald leaves clustered together like nature's buttons
• Blue Star Fern: Adding a sophisticated touch with its blue-green fronds that catch and reflect light
• Maidenhair Fern: Dancing with delicate, lace-like foliage that brings ethereal grace to any corner
• Bird's Nest Fern: Making a bold statement with its unique, rippled leaves that resemble a cosy nest.

Even in the tiniest of bathrooms, you can embrace Ferns. Consider mounting them on walls in decorative holders, like the ever-practical G-string Pot Holder, or suspending them from the ceiling or your shower in hanging planters, like the easy-to-use Moon Hanging Planter. 

For visual impact, try positioning a sleek plant stand, like the sturdy Orion Plant Stand, in those often-overlooked and narrow spaces beside toilets and sinks. Besides, the steam from your luxurious showers and baths will keep those ferns looking fresh.

Add luxury to your Living Room 

While living rooms might seem challenging for ferns, there's a clever secret to success: strength in numbers. By creating a microclimate through grouping, your ferns can flourish rather than fade. Think of it as building a tiny rainforest in your home, where each plant supports its neighbours.

Create an eye-catching focal point by grouping ferns at varying heights, letting their different textures, colour variations, and shapes compliment each other. Here are some show-stopping varieties that thrive together:

• Kangaroo Fern: Commands attention with its bold, architectural fronds and resilient nature.
• Autumn Fern: Nature's colour-changing artist, unfurling copper-tinted new growth that matures to rich emerald, creating a magical display.
• Rabbit's Foot Fern: Charms with its fuzzy rhizomes that creep over pot edges while their delicate fronds add a softness.

Elevate your display (literally!) with considered placement. Position ferns on wooden stands at staggered heights for a natural, forest floor feel. Or, create a living curtain with a collection of hanging planters and planter holders, like the stylish Andro Pot holder, near a bright window, allowing the fronds to spill over the edge like a green waterfall. For maximum impact, consider a sleek tiered shelf that draws the eye upward while providing each fern its own stage to shine.

Mount it or Moss ball it

Turn your ferns into floating works of art through mounting or the ancient Japanese art of kokedama (moss balls). These techniques free your ferns from traditional pots, allowing their natural beauty to take centre stage, as well as mimicking their natural environment.

Create living sculptures by mounting these spectacular ferns:

• Staghorn Fern: Mother Nature’s artwork, with shield-like base fronds and dramatic antler-shaped leaves will command interest on any wall.
• Bird's Nest Fern: Sleek and architectural, its rippling fronds emerge from a central crown, creating a natural focal point.
• Blue Star Fern: Its compact form and silvery-blue fronds make it perfect for adding contract and texture to smaller mounted displays.

Mount your ferns on cork bark or stylish wooden boards using sphagnum moss to retain moisture, and group a few together to create a stunning living gallery wall and any space.

For Moss balls, these varieties thrive when kept moist in the slow-drying Mossballs:

• Button Fern: Its delicate round leaflets cascade elegantly from the moss ball, creating a perfect hanging feature.
• Lemon Button Fern: Compact and charming, it forms a perfect sphere of tiny fronds.
• Maidenhair Fern: Its ethereal fronds will dance in a light breeze and will adore the moisture.
• Staghorn Ferns: When not mounted, they still make an intriguing Mossball specimen.

Display your moss-balled ferns in bathrooms or kitchens where natural humidity helps them thrive, or group them together at varying heights for a fabulous canopy of ferny wonders. Indoor forest. Remember to mist regularly and soak mounted ferns weekly, while moss balls benefit from a gentle soak when they start to feel light, but do not let them get too dry.
Shop a variety of Mossballs here.

Free Spirited Fronds: A boho must have

If you're a Boho Girlie (or Boy'jie) then Ferns are your perfect green companions for a laid-back, earthy aesthetic. These natural beauties add a wild yet effortless, untamed energy to your space.

Pair your ferns with macramé to create texture-rich layers that would make any free spirit swoon. Go classic with natural cotton macramé hangers, letting their intricate knots add texture and interest to the flowing fronds of your ferns. Or make a bold statement with vibrant, colourful macramé to match your decor.

Create your own boho botanical symphony by playing with heights and textures. Hang your ferns at varying heights in a mix of macramé hangers and sleek planters, each finding its perfect perch at a different level. Add sparkle to your green sanctuary by weaving crystals and mirrored ornaments between the fronds, letting light dance and play through your living display.

Remember: There are no rules in boho styling—just good vibes and happy plants. Let your creativity flow as freely as your ferns' fronds.

Consider these ferns for macramé magic: 
Here are four ferns from Plantify that would look fantastic in macramé hangers, based on their aesthetics and growing habits:

• Macho Fern: With its large arching, bold fronds, this fern is made to for creating a stylish hanging display.
• Leather Leaf Fern: Known for its textured and durable fronds, this fern is robust and easy to care for. Making it a striking addition to pair with macramé for a earthy look.
• Black Rabbit’s Foot Fern: Once again, this quirky fern with its creeping rhizomes will dangle attractively in macramé hangers, creating a truly ethereal display.
• Japanese Holly Fern: Last but not least, a Plantify absolute favourite. Featuring glossy, holly-shaped leaves, this fern is both striking and undoubtedly low-maintenance. Its compact size and intriguing fronds make it a wonderful choice for macramé displays.

A Fern-tastic Shelfie

Become the envy of your nearest and dearest by mastering the art of a stunning fern-filled shelfie by embracing the design principle of “thriller, filler, spiller.” Showcase your creativity by pairing a bold statement fern (the thriller), lush supporting greenery (the filler), and cascading fronds (the spiller) to create depth and intrigue.

Master Shelf Styling with the Thriller, Filler, Spiller Principle:

• Thriller: Silver Lace Fern: With its upright growth and structured fronds, the Silver Lace Fern creates a dramatic focal point that draws attention to your shelf display. It’s ideal for adding height and elegance, standing tall as the centrepiece of your styling. 
• Filler: Button Fern: This compact, bushy fern adds texture and density, filling in gaps around the thriller plant. Its round, glossy leaves provide a soft, lush contrast to the more defined structure of the Silver Lace Fern.  
• Spiller: Boston Fern 'Golden Glow': This amazing fern is a stunning spiller for shelves, showcasing vibrant lime-green fronds with golden undertones. Its cascading growth habit adds lush texture and dynamic colour variation, creating a lively, elegant display.

Bonus Fern: Crocodile Fern - Why it’s perfect? Its unique, textured fronds resemble crocodile skin, adding an unexpected element of interest. While it doesn’t fit neatly into the thriller, filler, or spiller roles, it’s a versatile option that works well in combination with others for added visual intrigue. 

For more on becoming a shelf styling genius, checkout: 8 Styling Ideas for iIndoor Shelves.

Ferns are a fantastic way to create that much desired jungle aesthetic indoors, but their beauty thrives with the correct care. From maintaining perfect lighting, keeping up with the watering, and being sure to check in frequently, you will have thriving, lush, vibrant ferns with these top tips.

Share any tips you may have for fern care or gain that confidence today and collect a few for your Collection here.