Guide for Caring for Boston Ferns during Winter: Maintaining Sword Ferns' Health through Cold Seasons
In the transition from autumn to winter, it's essential to prepare your Boston fern for the colder months ahead. This popular indoor plant, known for its lush fronds and tropical appearance, requires specific care to thrive during the dormant season.
**Acclimation** Begin by gradually bringing your Boston fern indoors before outdoor temperatures drop consistently below 55°F. This acclimation helps avoid shock from sudden changes in temperature and light. Place the fern in a bright location indoors that receives indirect or filtered light, as Boston ferns prefer dappled shade rather than direct sun which can scorch their fronds.
**Humidity** Boston ferns thrive in high humidity environments. Indoor air in winter can become dry, so increase humidity around the plant by misting regularly or placing the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles. Avoid placing the fern near dry heat sources like radiators or heating vents, which reduce humidity and can dry out the foliage.
**Temperature** Maintain indoor temperatures ideally around 60-75°F during the day and slightly cooler at night. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations that stress the fern.
**Care During Dormancy** Boston ferns typically enter a semi-dormant phase in winter, slowing growth. Reduce watering frequency; keep the soil moist but not soggy to avoid root rot. Refrain from fertilizing during dormancy as the plant’s nutrient needs decrease. Monitor for pests such as spider mites which can infest indoor plants in dry conditions.
If your Boston fern has suffered frost damage, trim back the damaged fronds and water it regularly but lightly to try to save it. If you don't have the right indoor conditions, let the Boston fern go dormant in a cool (not cold) location with minimal light and plenty of humidity.
In warmer months, Boston ferns require adequate light, warmth, and humidity to thrive. With regular watering, occasional fertilization, and pruning of dead fronds, your Boston fern should be lush and full again in the second year.
For effective drainage, consider using a Crescent Garden planter. This sturdy, weather-proof, and lightweight planter can protect your Boston fern whether it's moved back outside or kept indoors after winter.
Mary Ellen Ellis, a gardening expert with over 20 years of experience, specializes in flowers, native plants, and herbs. Amy Draiss and Becca Badgett, the Digital Community Manager and Writer, respectively, have contributed to this article.
Remember, it's best to water the Boston fern with rainwater or water that is not chlorinated. By following these steps, you can successfully overwinter your Boston fern and ensure it remains healthy and ready to thrive again in warmer months.
In the process of transitioning the Boston fern from autumn to winter, consider moving it to a home-and-garden setting where the lifestyle suits its preference for high humidity and specific temperature conditions. During dormancy, continue gardening practices that mimic its natural environment, such as maintaining a suitable temperature range and increasing humidity levels.
