The maidenhair fern, with its delicate, lacy fronds, is one of the most popular ferns grown as a houseplant. But it also has a reputation for being fussy and difficult to care for. This delicate beauty requires some special care when it comes to watering in order to help it thrive indoors.
Understanding the Maidenhair Fern’s Thirsty Nature
The maidenhair fern is native to tropical and subtropical regions, so it craves warm, humid conditions Its thin, finely divided fronds lose moisture rapidly, so maintaining consistently moist soil is crucial Allowing the soil to dry out too much will quickly cause the fern’s fronds to turn brown and crispy.
This thirsty fern needs much more frequent watering than most common houseplants. While you may be able to get away with watering many houseplants only when the top inch of soil is dry, such an irregular watering schedule will spell doom for your maidenhair fern.
How Often Should You Water a Maidenhair Fern?
There is no single prescribed watering frequency that is right for every maidenhair fern Watering needs can vary based on factors like
- Size of the plant
- Type of potting mix
- Humidity levels
- Temperature
- Air circulation
- Pot size
- Amount of light
Therefore, the best way to determine how often to water your maidenhair fern is to closely observe the moisture level of the potting mix.
General Guidelines
As a general guideline, most maidenhair ferns will need:
- Watering daily or every 2-3 days in warmer months (spring through fall)
- Watering 2-3 times per week in cooler months (winter)
During the active growing season (spring and summer), it’s best to check the soil daily and water as soon as the top inch becomes slightly dry. It’s essential to never allow the potting mix to dry out completely.
In cooler months when growth slows (fall and winter), you can usually get by with watering 2-3 times per week. But again, check soil moisture frequently.
Observe the Leaves
In addition to checking soil moisture, observe the plant’s foliage for signs of its water needs:
- Leaves remaining perky – Plant is adequately hydrated
- Leaves drooping or curling – Time to water immediately
- Leaf tips browning – Likely caused by inconsistent watering, allowing soil to dry out too much
Increase Frequency in Hot, Dry Conditions
If your home is very warm, has low humidity, and has lots of sunlight and air circulation, your maidenhair fern may need watering even more frequently – potentially daily, year-round.
Smaller ferns and those in smaller pots may need more frequent watering as well. Monitor soil moisture and foliage closely to determine optimal frequency.
Decrease Frequency in Cool, Humid Conditions
If your home is cool, shady, and humid, you may be able to get away with watering a bit less frequently – every 3-5 days. But don’t let the potting mix dry out completely.
Larger ferns planted in bigger pots hold moisture longer, allowing them to go slightly longer between thorough waterings.
Providing Proper Moisture Through the Soil
While humidity is important for a maidenhair fern, don’t rely solely on misting its leaves frequently. This provides only temporary moisture to the foliage. Keeping the soil consistently moist by watering thoroughly is essential.
Here are some tips for providing proper moisture through the soil:
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Use a rich, loamy potting mix that retains some moisture. Avoid mixes with a high gravel or perlite content, which drain too quickly.
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Water thoroughly each time until water drains from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root zone is hydrated.
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Pour off any water in the saucer after 30 minutes so the pot is not sitting in water.
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Consider using self-watering pots or pot covers to help maintain humidity in the soil.
Providing Additional Moisture Through Humidity
While not a substitute for thorough watering, providing supplemental humidity can be helpful between waterings. Ideas for increasing humidity around your maidenhair fern include:
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Place its pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
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Mist the plant daily, focusing on misting the soil and pot edges rather than the foliage itself.
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Use a humidifier nearby.
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Grow in a bathroom or other naturally humid room.
Caring for your maidenhair fern is certainly high-maintenance when it comes to its thirst, but paying close attention to its water needs will help it thrive. Focus on maintaining evenly moist soil through very frequent watering. Supplement with added humidity between waterings. With the right balance of water and humidity, your delicate maidenhair fern can grow happily in your home for years to come.
Taxonomy Scientific name
Maidenhair Fern needs 0. 5 cups of water every 9 days if it’s in a 5″ pot and doesn’t get direct sunlight.
You can use our water calculator to get personalized watering advice based on your area, or you can download Greg to get more detailed advice for all of your plants.
Water 0.5 cups every 9
Does your plant get direct sunlight? No Yes
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Care Summary for Maidenhair Fern
Greg recommends:
0.5 cups every 9 days
< 3ft from a window
Repot after 2x growth
Based on the 4” pot your plant is in, and that it doesn’t get direct sunlight.
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Maidenhair fern care | Not that difficult
FAQ
How much water does a maidenhair fern need?
Can you overwater a maidenhair fern?
Should you mist a maidenhair fern?
Should I bottom water maidenhair fern?
How do you care for maidenhair ferns?
Maidenhair ferns have particular soil preferences to ensure healthy growth. They thrive in moist but well-drained potting soil. Care should be taken to maintain the moisture level; it should remain consistently wet, not soggy or overly dry. The neutral pH of this soil provides a hospitable environment, encouraging robust plant life.
How often should you water a rosy maidenhair fern?
How often you water your rosy maidenhair fern depends on its age and size, your climate, and whether you grow it in a container, in the ground, or indoors. These plants prefer even moisture. Overly dry or soggy conditions are majorly problematic. Check the soil daily and water when the soil surface feels dry.
Do maidenhair ferns need watering?
Water from the bottom up: Maidenhair Ferns benefit from bottom watering. This approach helps to ensure that the roots receive sufficient water without the risk of wetting the leaves, which can lead to problems such as leaf spot. Bottom-up watering also helps with the stability of the plant as it encourages the roots to grow downwards.
What happens if you overwater a maidenhair fern?
Overwatering can cause various issues for your Maidenhair fern, such as root rot, yellow/brown splodgy leaves closest to the soil, and stem collapse. To avoid overwatering, make sure the soil is moist but not wet. Consistent moisture is key, so check the soil every day and add more water if it feels dry.