Question
My Boston fern was beautiful and very large it has since started to loose fons and it seems like they are extra wooly feeling and new growth is covered in, for lack of better terms, wool and not opening up. I was thinking that the roots might be bound because it has been in the same pot for maybe 3-4 years, also the new fons are coming up black thanks for any input.


Answer
Hi Linda;

I bet you live in Boston right?  Just kidding!!  Being root bound is indeed a good possibility that you can check and correct. You may also consider thinning out some of the excess above ground growth as well.  If the roots are tight, consider "spreading" them out some to loosen.  Your description does not sound like an infectious disease that i am aware of. Be sure to maintain your plant in a good well-drained soil so it does not say wet for long periods- just moist to the touch. Usually, when I water a container plant, I drench the soil until it flows freely out the drain holes for awhile, then let it sit and do not water until the soil is quite dry and sometimes wait until the plant show a little drooping.
Hope you have great weekend!

Steve