Boston Fern

Species Family Genus Common names

: Nephrolepis exaltata Bostoniensis : Nephrolepidaceae : Nephrolepis : Boston Fern, Sword Fern, Wild Boston Fern

Boston, the most common and favourite fern, has several varieties and is relatively easy to grow. It is a large variety having upright, graceful green foliage with long, elegantly curved fronds divided into small leaflets (pinnae). The foliage arising from underground stems called rhizomes can grow up to 6 feet tall. The 3-5 feet long fronds are variously cut and the individual pinnae are about 3" and narrow. The round sori (clusters of spore-bearing organs) occur in two rows near the margins on the underside of the pinnae.

Boston fern is usually grown in moist, shady areas. It looks beautiful in hanging pots or on pedestals and can also be used as an indoor plant. Like the other ferns, it likes a moist but not soggy soil, rich in organic matter and high humidity. It requires only indirect lighting and should be watered regularly.  Propagation can be done from spores or by division. During their growing season, the fern requires regular fertilization. When roots fill the pot, the fern should be repotted.

Only moderate care is needed for its healthy growth. Although they are considered generally pest free, aphids, mealy bugs and mites are the most common insect problems. A good spray with water will usually dislodge any insects on the plant. Root rot may be a problem and adequate drainage should be provided to avoid the condition.

Questions & Answers

1.  Posted on : 9.6.2010  By  :  Pallavi h.Kumar , Ponani, Ponani Post Answer   What are the creepers?With more examples   Ans:  Creepers are very much similar to climbers, like money plant, monstera, rangoon creeper, passion flower, they need support to grow upward or they have weak stems.   Posted by Yash R Toliwal , New Panvel (Maharashtra)

2.  Posted on : 21.4.2009  By  :  Julie Shaw , USA Post Answer   What is the tiniest fern? Our bonsi club was considering using very tiny ferns as accept plants but can't find any small enough to suit us. Thanks J.Shaw   Ans:  First thing is that the plant which u r seecting for making bonsai should have strong stem, ferns do not have the same characteristic, in other words u cannot make a bonsai of a fern.   Posted by Yash R Toliwal, New Panvel (Maharashtra)

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