Question
Hello Will,
I wonder ifi you can help with my maiden hair fern.
I had it on my desk at work for about 4-5 weeks and it was flourishing.  It was out of direct sunlight and draughts but all of a sudden it went very dry and shriveled up.
I have now taken it home and it is at the top of the stairs, again out of direct sunlight and draughts.  But i don't know how I can revive it!?
I have watered it with Baby Bio and kept an eye on the soil conditons.
Any advice and help would be great!
Chantelle

Answer
Hi Chantelle

Maidenhair Ferns are one of the loveliest of potted plants, but also one of the least forgiving of plants. They need lots of bright light, but protection from direct rays of the sun. They need constantly damp, but not soggy soil. They require warm temps above 65 degrees F. Hard water and excess fertilizer quickly burn tender roots. Moderately high humidity is required, but misting doesn't help. Finally, the delicate fronds bruise easily when handled.

The most common cause of shriveled leaves is soil that gets a bit too dry, even once. Inadequate light and low humidity also cause these symptoms, as do hard water and excess fertilizer. I recommend that you stop using Baby Bio.

Finally, I will note that most office light is not enough for a Maidenhair Fern unless you have a fluorescent desk lamp that is no more than 6-8 inches above the plant.

Once the fronds turn dry, those fronds will not recover. To keep the remaining fronds from drying out, you will have to determine the cause from those I have listed as possibilities and correct it. This may be challenging and, if so, you will understand why you don't see too many Maidenhair Ferns that have been kept in homes and offices for very long. Good luck with yours.

I have written an article on indoor Fern care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com