Do tree ferns prefer shade or sun?
Tree ferns are happiest growing in shade, but they can grow in sun as long as they are very well watered. They dislike exposed or windy positions. Your tree fern will need protecting in winter in all but the mildest areas of the UK. Plant Australian tree fern in an area that gets partial or dappled sunlight, protected from midday sun. The best time to plant these trees is in early spring so that they can quickly start growing as the days get longer.While it’s true that most ferns are happiest in some level of shade, there are varieties that can take some sunlight, particularly the cooler morning sun. Then there’s the matter of water. Again, most ferns will grow pretty well in moist soil, but others like it on the drier side.These are harvested from the wild under licence and will grow quite successfully when potted or planted in the open ground. Tree ferns prefer a neutral to slightly acid soil, so pot in an ericaceous compost.I like to water mine initially with a dilute seaweed-based fertilizer. This helps strengthen the tree fern and aids rapid root development. I then continue to feed this way monthly through the growing season. If you live in colder parts of the British Isles it’s best to consider winter protection too.Fish fertilizer is an excellent source of nutrition for your ferns. This fertilizer is safe around children and pets.
Do tree ferns like wet soil?
Tree ferns can be grown in borders or containers and need a damp, shady, sheltered spot, out of direct sunlight and neutral to acid soil. They grow well in boggy conditions near water too. Although ferns are happy residents of shade gardens outdoors, inside they require plenty of bright, indirect light. Exposure to direct sun will burn their delicate foliage, making it dry and brittle and browning the edges. Avoid southern exposure where ferns will be subjected to harsh solar rays.Consistent and evenly moist soil is key in order to maintain a bright green, healthy glow. Your watering schedule will depend on how you plant your fern. If you choose to place your fern in a hanging basket or pot, remember that they can dry out quickly. Soil should be kept damp but not wet to the touch.Place the fern in a spot with bright, indirect lighting. Avoid heating vents and direct sun. Group ferns together or place them on a shallow tray of rocks and water to increase humidity. Water about once a month during the winter when the soil is completely dry.Ferns prefer indirect lighting from a north or east-facing window. The intense sunlight from a southern or western exposure may dry out or even scald the foliage. A sheer curtain can reduce light penetration or move the fern far enough from the window to avoid direct sunlight.
What do overwatered ferns look like?
If a Boston fern is overwatered, its leaves will become discolored and soft. The fronds can also turn mushy and start to droop. In addition, the soil develops a distinct odor of decay as the roots begin to rot. If you don’t take immediate action, the symptoms will aggravate. NPK 20-20-20 Liquid Fertiliser – Best for general-purpose fern feeding. Suitable for all indoor/outdoor ferns. Apply monthly during active growth. Cal-Mag Hydroponic Nutrients Fertiliser – Ideal for maidenhair and tree ferns showing signs of yellowing or leaf curl.Misting your Fern daily is a good idea if the air in your home is usually dry. But make sure not to soak the leaves to prevent fungal issues. Use a fine spray and mist in the morning so the leaves can dry during the day.If you’re looking for a boost for your ferns, epsom salt is the answer. Packed with magnesium and sulfur, essential nutrients for plant health, it can work wonders. This simple, inexpensive solution can help prevent yellowing leaves, enhance chlorophyll production, and improve overall plant health.Chemical herbicides are the quickest and most reliable way to kill ferns. If you don’t care about applying chemicals to your yard, buy a store-bought herbicide made for shrubs or invasive plants. You can buy herbicides from most garden centers or nurseries.
How do you care for a tree fern indoors?
Tree Ferns thrive in bright, indirect light, and moderate to high humidity (see below for ways to increase humidity around your plant). From spring to fall, keep soil evenly moist and apply a balanced (20-20-20) houseplant fertilizer monthly; in winter, water when the top ½ of the potting mix is dry. I dissolve 1 tablespoon of plain Epsom salt (check the pharmacy aisle—you don’t want the scented bath kind) in a pitcher of very warm water. I like to stir my salt water with a rubber spatula to really mix it up well, then simply pour over thirsty ferns and flowers.Mix 1 capful (10ml) of Tree Fern Feed to 2 litres of water and apply directly to the crown (top) of the tree fern, feeding once every week during the growing season. Tree Fern Feed is formulated specifically for tree ferns, but can be used on all other types of ferns to good effect.Ferns need to be watered regularly enough that the soil is kept moist, not soggy or dry. Indoor ferns can be watered once or twice a week, while outdoor ferns may need to be watered every day. You can tell a fern needs water if the soil is dry, or you can buy a moisture meter to take out the guesswork.Epsom salt helps keep your ferns green and promotes growth. We recommend adding 1 Tbsp of plain epsom salt to a gallon of water (mix until salt is dissolved) – and water your ferns with that solution once every 3-4 weeks.
How long does a tree fern last?
Tree ferns can have incredibly long lifespans with some species known to live for over 250 years in the wild. This impressive lifespan may be partially due to their slow growth rate relative to other species and ability to cope with a wide array of climatic conditions. The trunks themselves are incredibly slow ‘growing’ however as they are made up of the growth from previous years. A three foot tree fern is usually in excess of 36 years old!
How often should you water a fern tree?
Make sure the fern receives plenty of water. Daily water is ideal but a minimum of once every 3 days (a deep soak) is a must. Monitor your fern closely for signs of overwatering or underwatering. Brown, crispy leaves can be a sign of underwatering, while yellowing leaves and a soggy soil may indicate overwatering.Ferns prefer to stay in moist soil. It is important to maintain a good medium between letting the soil dry out and keeping it wet. The best way to tell if your fern needs to be watered is by sticking your finger into the top layer – if the top 1 1/2 inches are dry, then you should water.Yellowing leaves and wilting signal root rot; inspect your Giant Fern closely. Mushy, discolored roots and foul smells indicate decay; trim unhealthy roots promptly. Repot in well-draining mix and allow soil to dry to prevent future rot.