🌿 Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

The Boston Fern is a lush, timeless houseplant known for its graceful, arching fronds and soft texture. Originating from tropical regions of the Americas, this classic fern thrives in humidity and steady moisture. When grown in kokedama form, its trailing fronds create a natural, flowing display that softens any space 🌿 from bathrooms to shaded patios.

• Prefers bright, indirect light or dappled shade.
• Avoid direct sun, which can scorch delicate fronds.
• Tolerates lower light but will grow more slowly and appear less full.
• A north or east-facing window is ideal.

• Keep moss consistently moist but never soggy.
• Water when the moss feels lighter or begins to pale 💧 about every 5–7 days.
• Pour 1 cup of water slowly, letting the moss fully absorb it.
• Rotate while watering to hydrate evenly.
• Mist fronds daily or every other day to maintain humidity and prevent crisping.
  💡 Tip: If leaves start turning brown at the tips, it’s often due to dry air, not lack of water. Increase misting or move closer to a humid environment.

• Feed once a month during spring and summer with a ¼-strength balanced fertilizer.
• Skip feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
• Ferns prefer gentle feeding 🌿 too much fertilizer can burn their roots.

• Ideal range: 65–80°F (18–27°C).
• Loves high humidity (60–80%). Great for bathrooms or kitchens.
• Avoid dry air from heaters or AC vents.
• Use a humidifier or pebble tray nearby if needed.

• Trim away dead or discolored fronds at the base.
• Gently shake or brush dust off leaves occasionally.
• Rotate every few weeks for even shape and color.
• Can stay in kokedama form for 8–12 months before rewrapping.

Rewrap or repot when:

• Moss feels compacted or fronds thin out at the center.
• The kokedama dries out faster than usual.
• Roots are visibly pushing through the moss.
  If replanting, use a light, moisture-retentive soil mix with peat, coco coir, and perlite.

The Boston Fern became a household favorite during the Victorian era for its graceful, cascading fronds. It’s also one of NASA’s top-rated plants for indoor air purification 💫 making it as practical as it is beautiful.

• Light: Bright, indirect or dappled shade
• Water: 1 cup every 5–7 days; keep moss damp
• Humidity: High (60–80%); mist often
• Temperature: 65–80°F (18–27°C)
• Feeding: Monthly, ¼-strength fertilizer in growing season
• Maintenance: Trim, mist, and rotate regularly
• Kokedama Lifespan: 8–12 months before rewrapping
• When to Refresh: Moss compacts or roots emerge
• Difficulty: Moderate 🪴 needs humidity and steady moisture
• Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans

If accidentally ingested (by curious pets or children), Boston Ferns are non-toxic, but monitor for mild stomach upset and contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 if symptoms occur.