Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) – Complete Care, Types, and Growing Guide
The Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), also known as the sword fern, is one of the most popular and timeless houseplants. With its lush, arching fronds and air-purifying qualities, it adds elegance to homes, offices, patios, and gardens. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, understanding Boston fern care is key to keeping this plant thriving all year round.
Boston Fern Characteristics
The Boston fern plant belongs to the Nephrolepidaceae family and is native to tropical and subtropical regions. Its fronds can grow up to 3 feet long, giving it a full, bushy appearance. Variations such as the tiger fern or curly-leaf cultivars add extra texture and beauty.
Boston Fern Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Popularly Known As Sword Fern, Ladder Fern, Boss Fern, and the Boston Fern |
| Botanical Name | Nephrolepis exaltata |
| Family | Lomariopsidaceae |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous, perennial |
| Mature Size | 2–3 ft. tall and wide |
| Sun Exposure | Partial shade to filtered sunlight |
| Soil Type | Moist, well-drained |
| Soil pH | Acidic |
| Hardiness Zone | 9–11 (USDA) |
| Native Area | Central America, North America, South America, Africa, Pacific Islands |
Is Boston Fern an Indoor Plant?
Yes! The Boston fern can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, it thrives in bright, indirect light with high humidity, making it perfect for living rooms, bathrooms, and offices. In colder climates, it’s often kept indoors year-round to protect it from frost.
Do Boston Ferns Like Sun or Shade?
Boston ferns prefer partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch their delicate fronds, while deep shade may slow growth. The best spot is where they receive filtered morning light and are protected from harsh afternoon sun.
What Are the Benefits of the Boston Fern?
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Air Purification: Boston ferns help filter indoor air by absorbing harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and xylene.
Humidity Boost: They release moisture into the air, helping reduce dryness.
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Decorative Appeal: Their lush greenery enhances both modern and classic interiors.
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Stress Reduction: Studies show indoor plants can improve mood and productivity.
Where Is the Best Place to Put a Boston Fern?
The best place depends on whether you are growing it indoors or outdoors:
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Indoors: Ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, or close to east-facing windows where humidity and gentle, indirect light are available.
Outdoors: Shaded porches, patios, or under large trees for natural protection.
Boston Fern Indoor or Outdoor
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Indoor Growing: Ideal for year-round beauty in climate-controlled environments.
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Outdoor Growing: Works well in mild climates with high humidity; bring indoors during frost.
Boston Fern Care – Step-by-Step
1. Light
Bright, indirect sunlight is best. Too little light leads to slow growth, while too much burns fronds.
2. Watering
Keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. Water when the top inch feels dry.
3. Humidity
Boston ferns need high humidity (50–80%).Increase Humidity: Use a humidifier or set the pot on a pebble-filled tray with water beneath it.
4. Soil
A rich, well-draining potting mix with peat moss and perlite works well.
5. Temperature
Maintain 60–75°F (15–24°C). Avoid sudden drafts or heat sources.
Types of Boston Ferns
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Classic Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’) – Traditional sword-shaped fronds.
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Tiger Fern – Features yellow and green striped fronds.
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Dallas Fern – A compact variety, perfect for decorating smaller spaces.
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Florida Ruffle Fern – Features delicately ruffled foliage that adds a distinctive charm.
Pruning
Regular pruning keeps your Boston fern full and healthy:
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Trim dead or yellow fronds at the base.
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Thin out overcrowded areas to improve air circulation.
Growing in Pots
Boston ferns grow beautifully in hanging baskets or decorative containers. Choose a pot with drainage holes and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Propagating
The easiest way to propagate is by division:
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Remove the plant from its pot.
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Gently separate the root ball into smaller sections.
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Replant each section in fresh soil.
Growing From Spores
Boston ferns can be grown from spores, but it’s a slow process:
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Collect spores from the undersides of mature fronds.
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Sprinkle them on moist, sterile growing medium.
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Keep covered in high humidity until new plants emerge.
Overwintering
In cold climates, move Boston ferns indoors before the first frost. Keep them near bright windows and maintain high humidity through winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
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Pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.
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Diseases: Root rot from overwatering and leaf spot from poor air circulation.
Common Issues & Solutions
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Fronds Turning Brown: Low humidity or underwatering – increase misting and humidity.
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Yellow Leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage – adjust watering schedule.
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Sparse Growth: Not enough light – move to a brighter location.
Boston Fern Propagation Indoors & Outdoors
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Indoors: Best done by root division during spring.
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Outdoors: Can also spread naturally in shaded, moist garden beds.
Boston Fern in Bathrooms
Bathrooms are excellent for Boston ferns because of constant moisture and steam, which replicate their natural tropical habitat.
Boston Fern Toxic to Cats
Boston ferns are safe for pets, as they are non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
How to Care for a Boston Fern Indoors
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Place near a bright, filtered light source.
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Maintain consistent moisture.
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Mist daily or use a humidifier.
How to Care for a Boston Fern Outside
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Position in shade or dappled light.
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Protect from wind and extreme heat.
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Water regularly, especially in dry periods.
Frequently Asked Questions about Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
1. Is the Boston fern an indoor plant?
Yes, the Boston fern grows beautifully indoors, especially in bright, indirect light and high humidity. It’s a favorite for living rooms, bathrooms, and shaded patios.
2. Do Boston ferns like sun or shade?
They prefer partial shade or filtered sunlight. Direct sun can burn the fronds, while deep shade may slow growth.
3. What are the benefits of the Boston fern?
Boston ferns purify indoor air, increase humidity, reduce stress, and add a lush, decorative touch to any space.
4. Where is the best place to put a Boston fern?
Indoors, place it near east-facing windows or in humid rooms like bathrooms. Outdoors, choose a shaded spot protected from wind and hot afternoon sun.
5. Is the Boston fern toxic to cats?
No. Boston ferns are non-toxic to cats and dogs, making them a safe plant choice for pet owners.
6. How do I care for a Boston fern indoors?
Keep the soil consistently moist, provide high humidity, and place it in bright, indirect light. Mist daily or use a humidifier for best results.
7. How do I care for a Boston fern outside?
Grow it in shaded areas, water regularly, and protect from strong winds or direct midday sun.
8. How do you propagate a Boston fern?
The easiest method is division. Carefully divide the root ball into smaller sections and plant each one in fresh soil. You can also grow from spores, though it takes longer.
9. What is the ideal temperature for Boston ferns?
They thrive in 60–75°F (15–24°C). Avoid sudden temperature drops and frost exposure.
10. Can Boston ferns grow in bathrooms?
Yes, bathrooms are ideal since they provide natural humidity and warmth, similar to the fern’s tropical habitat.
Final Thoughts
The Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) is a beloved classic, adding freshness, charm, and cleaner air to any setting. With the right care, pruning, and growing conditions, this lush fern will thrive indoors or outdoors for years to come.
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