Boston Ferns
Some Interesting Facts About Boston Ferns
Boston ferns (nephrolepsis exalta bostoniensis) have been popular plants, in the home and garden, for at least the past one hundred years. They are often used as a porch or patio plant, and are characterized by fairly long fronds, growing to 4 or more feet in length. They are believed to be a genetic variation of the sword fern.
There are around 12,000 species of ferns in the world today. The fern has been on earth since before the dinosaurs, 300 million years at least. Ferns are found in every region of the earth except the polar regions, with the greatest number of different species found in tropical environments. Given that ferns prefer a habitat similar to their native habitat, the number of types available for your home or garden is, to a certain extent, limited.
Boston ferns, as the name implies, prefer a New England, or similar, climate. As is the case with most ferns, they are shade loving plants, although a few hours each day of indirect sunlight during the winter will be beneficial. A north-facing window is an ideal location in this respect. The fronds will grow upright at first, and then begin to droop as they mature. This fern grows well in containers.
Most ferns prefer a loamy well-drained soil, and Boston ferns are no exception. A mixture of equal parts of loamy garden soil, peat or sphagnum, and sand, constitutes a good growing medium. A little manure for added nutrients is a good idea as well. The addition of pea gravel and/or charcoal will assist in providing good drainage, while the peat or sphagnum is included for moisture retention.
Boston ferns should be fertilized on a monthly basis during the summer months, and less frequently, about every other month, from October through March. Most ferns are not frost tolerant, and need to be taken inside during the winter months, or whenever frosts or freezes become the norm. A nighttime temperature of 55 degrees is ideal. During the day, the fern is happiest when the temperature is 72 degrees or slightly lower.
All ferns love humidity, which can be one of the main problems in growing them. When out of doors, they will not tolerate drying winds for any significant period of time, and are best placed in sheltered locations, whether in the garden or on a porch or patio. They will be at their best indoors when in a room that is reasonably cool and humid. If having an electric humidifier is not practical, the plant containers can be placed in a tray filled with gravel and water. This will add humidity to the air in the immediate vicinity of the plant.
Ferns are fairly pest and disease resistant, although infestations of scale or mealy bugs can sometimes occur. The best prevention is to carefully and thoroughly examine the plant upon purchasing, to make certain no insects are present. Ferns generally do not tolerate insecticides, although some do more than others. In any event, some damage to the fronds will likely occur.
Many have enjoyed Boston ferns in the past and no doubt will continue to do so in the future, as it is one of the easier ferns to grow.