Question
I obtained this Boston Fern at a rummage sale and was told it was over 20 years old.  It was in good condition but the pot was tiny so I transplanted it.  Now it appears to be wilting away, drying up.  I spray it a couple of times a week and give it a good watering weekly. The window faces North and I sometimes use a small grow light but have stopped due to the poor condition of the plant.  I have been using filtered city water.   Can you suggest what I am doing wrong.  I really love this plant and would like to save it.

Answer
Gail,

You should not have repottted it going into the fall. It doesn't mind being rootbound and will stay healthier that way. Move it to an east or west window and and place a cool mist vaporizer under it. Then cut way back on the water. Give it about a cup of water every 7 to 10 days. It likes humidity but not a lot of water during the winter. They are all very touchy in the winter but even more so if you repot an damage the roots. More light, less water and higher humidity may solve the problem. Good luck.

Darlene