As the leaves begin to change colors and the air becomes crisp and cool, there's nothing quite like bringing a little bit of the outdoors inside by adding a lush fern to your living space. Autumn ferns are the perfect choice for those wanting to add some greenery to their home during the fall season. These ferns, with their striking fronds, provide a warm and inviting touch to any indoor space, making them ideal for use as houseplants.
However, keeping your autumn fern healthy and vibrant throughout the colder months can be a bit of a challenge. To ensure your fern stays healthy and continues to thrive, here are some tips on how to care for an indoor autumn fern:
1. Select the Right Spot
Autumn ferns prefer a spot with indirect sunlight, as direct sun exposure can damage the fronds. These ferns also thrive on moist, but well-draining soil. Ensure you keep the soil moist and water it regularly.
2. Humidity
Ferns love high humidity levels, which can be a challenge in the colder months when the heat is on inside. Place your fern on a tray filled with pebbles and add water, ensuring that the water level doesn't reach the base of the pot. As the water evaporates, it will increase the humidity around the plant.
3. Fertilize Regularly
To help your fern stay healthy and continue to produce new fronds, you should fertilize it regularly. A slow-release fertilizer is ideal and should be applied every two to three months during the growing season.
4. Temperature
Autumn ferns thrive in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, making them ideal for indoor growing. Keep the plant away from any drafty windows or doors and ensure that you don't place them too close to any heat sources, as this could cause the fern to dry out.
5. Prune and Groom as Needed
To keep your fern looking its best, you should prune and groom it as needed. Remove any brown or yellow fronds or any that are wilted or dead. Groom the fern by removing any debris that falls on the soil, which can cause fungal issues.
These are just a few tips on how to care for an indoor autumn fern. With a little bit of care and attention, your fern will continue to thrive throughout autumn and beyond, adding a touch of natural beauty to your home.