How to grow ferns at home

Ferns come in over two thousand varieties that can be grown indoors, and thanks to their lush appearance they give cheerfulness and tone to internal environments, making them even brighter, but above all they filter the air and clean it, and are therefore considered among the most suitable plants to combat domestic pollution and keep pests at a safe distance. According to studies conducted by NASA, the most effective species in performing this environmental protection function is the Boston fern.

Index of topics

Types of ferns

Among the most cultivated are:

La Davalla Fijiensis, also called “rabbit's foot fern”, with its rhizomes covered with thick hairs
La Dicksonia antartica, with a trunk that makes it look like a palm tree
Il Platycerium bifurcatum, which has large deer-shaped leaves
Il Polypodium vulgare It's a very common outdoor fern in Europe, characterized by long, thin, bright green fronds. This variety grows well in moist, shaded areas.
Osmunda, highly prized for its aesthetic value. It can be grown on terraces and indoors.
Filix-femina, is one of the tallest specimens and can reach up to 1,5 meters in height.

Where to put them

When choosing a location for ferns, avoid excessive sun exposure. They are prone to burning under direct sunlight, preferring the shade provided by a curtain, and thrive in east- or north-facing rooms, which are usually cooler and more sheltered. Keep them away from windows, at least one to two meters.

Repotting

Fern plants grow very quickly and need to be repotted at least annually. Sometimes, even every six months.

Watering

Almost all species are of rain-fed origin and love high environmental humidity, such as that which can be found in bathroom (one of the ideal rooms for ferns), or in homes with thick walls and cool rooms. The soil in the pots should always be moist, and if it appears dry, it should be watered immediately, while the foliage of the plants should be sprayed.

Cultivation treatments

Ferns have thin roots that tend to dry out, so don't add sand, perlite, or other aggregates; a general-purpose potting mix will do. The soil should be fresh, acidic, and deep. Plastic pots are best: they retain moisture better than terracotta.

Problems and remedies

The soil where ferns grow should not be soaked to avoid waterlogging. If the leaves are yellow or have brown tips, it means the plant is not getting enough moisture and too much sun. Ferns can be attacked by cochineal.