Question
I have tried growing Maidenhair ferns a few times with little to no success (the
plant croaks) after a month or two in. I was wondering if you could provide me
with more "lively" instructions for growing, such as: proper watering techniques,   
where to place them as far as light exposure, fertilizer etc...

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Nicole,

Maidenhair ferns are not easy to grow as indoor plants for a number of reasons.

First, they do no do well in dry air so they tend to suffer in heated homes during the winter months. Pebble trays help some and humidifiers are even better. But Maidenhairs do best of all in terrariums where it is always very humid.

They require lots of bright light, but must always be protected from the direct rays of the sun that can burn the fragile leaves.

Speaking of fragile leaves, this plant does not like to be touched or handled much because the delicate leaves bruise so easily.

Maidenhairs have small, fine root systems that like to be confined in small pots and left undisturbed.

Maidenhairs are also quite unforgiving of watering lapses. Even a single episode or soil drying out will cause the plant to suffer noticeably. On the other hand, keeping the soil constantly soggy will rot the tender toots and kill the plant.

Temperatures in the 60-70 degree range are also important, so avoid any temperature extremes.

Fertilize this plant very sparingly at no more than half-strength. Fish emulsion is a mild fertilizer that works well with most ferns.

Finally, chemical fertilizers, hard-water mists and air pollutants can damage this plant, as well.

So there you have it. I don' know how "lively" these instructions have been, but I hope your find them helpful, and not to discouraging.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]