How often to water a Boston fern
Nephrolepis exaltata
Every few days in summer, whenever the surface of the soil starts to feel dry.
Boston ferns want consistently moist soil and do not forgive drying out. Check them every few days, especially in warm weather or near a heater.
Boston fern schedule
Water
- Spring and summer
- Check every 2 to 3 days, water when the surface is dry
- Fall and winter
- About once a week
Feed
- Spring and summer
- Monthly, at half strength
- Fall and winter
- None
Check the soil first. Water only when it is as dry as this guide says.
How to tell it is time to water
Touch the surface of the soil. When it feels just dry, water thoroughly so the whole root ball is moist.
Signs of overwatering
- Yellowing fronds
- A grey, soft or mushy center
- Soil that smells sour
Signs of underwatering
- Brown, crispy fronds
- Leaflets falling off when touched
- Soil shrinking from the pot edge
Light and pot
- Light
- Bright, indirect light. Humidity matters as much as water: dry indoor air browns the fronds.
- Pot and soil
- A pot with a drainage hole and a moisture-holding mix with some peat or coir.
- Pets
- Listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
This schedule is general guidance for a healthy indoor plant. Light, temperature, humidity, pot size and soil all change how fast it dries out, so check the soil before you water and adjust.