As an avid indoor gardener, I’ve found that the Boston fern is one of my all-time favorite plants to grow. With its gracefully arching fronds, ability to thrive in low light conditions, and reputation as one of the easiest ferns to care for, it’s no wonder the Boston fern has been cherished worldwide for over a century.

While you can often find these beauties at your local nursery, propagating your own Boston ferns through division is extremely rewarding. Not only does it allow you to produce more plants for free, but it’s also a great way to rejuvenate overgrown specimens

If you’re looking to increase your stock of Boston ferns, you’re in luck – dividing them is a simple process anyone can do In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process I use to successfully divide my Boston ferns at home.

When to Divide Boston Ferns

Boston ferns can be divided at almost any time of the year as long as temperatures are warm However, it’s best to divide them during the active growing season of spring through summer I’ve had the most success dividing ferns in early summer when growth is vigorous.

Dividing Boston ferns in the heat of summer allows the new divisions time to establish roots before cooler weather returns. Bring plants inside if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C) to prevent cold damage.

What You’ll Need

Gather these basic supplies before dividing your Boston fern:

• Sharp, serrated knife or garden shears
• Small pots or trays
• Potting mix
• Watering can
• Tarp or drop cloth (optional)

Step 1: Remove the Fern from Its Pot

Start by gently removing your Boston fern from its container. Spread a tarp or drop cloth in your workspace to catch any stray soil or debris. Tease the root ball loose, being careful not to damage the delicate roots.

Tip: If roots have become quite tangled or matted, you can soak the root ball in water for 10-15 minutes to make removing the plant easier.

Step 2: Divide the Root Ball into Sections

Now comes the fun part – dividing the root ball! Using a sharp, serrated knife, slice the fern’s root ball in half, then quarters, and finally into eighths.

You can continue dividing into even smaller sections depending on the original size of your plant, as long as each division has a healthy portion of roots and foliage.

Step 3. Trim Each Division

Once divided, carefully trim back each root ball division to leave only 1 to 2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of roots. Also trim the foliage to remove any damaged or yellowing fronds.

The trimmed divisions should be small enough to fit into 4 or 5 inch (10-13 cm) starter pots. This pruning encourages the divisions to focus energy on producing fresh roots and new growth.

Step 4. Repot the Divided Sections

Now it’s time to pot up your divided ferns. Place a portion of potting mix into new containers, then set one fern division into each pot. Fill around the root ball with more fresh mix, firming it down gently.

Leave about 1/2 inch (1 cm) between the soil line and the pot’s rim to allow space for watering. Group two or three divisions together in larger pots if desired.

Step 5. Water and situate the Divided Ferns

Give each freshly potted fern division a thorough watering to help settle the soil. Allow excess moisture to drain from the pots.

Situate your newly divided ferns in a location with bright, indirect light. Maintain consistently moist (but not soggy) soil as the new plants establish. Mist the foliage daily for added humidity.

Step 6. Watch for New Growth!

In a few weeks, you should notice your Boston fern divisions sending out fresh new fronds. As the plants become fully established, they will rapidly grow into lush, full-sized specimens ready to beautify your home.

Continue providing bright, indirect light and moderate water as the ferns mature. Repot into larger containers as needed when roots fill the pots. Your divisions will soon be on their way to rivaling the original plant!

Troubleshooting Boston Fern Division

While dividing Boston ferns is fairly straightforward, you may encounter a few potential issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Yellowing fronds – This is normal directly after division as the plant recovers. Remove any unsightly fronds.

• Slow growth – Increase light exposure and fertilize monthly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.

• Weak fronds – Increase humidity through misting and using a pebble tray.

• Root rot – Allow soil to dry between waterings and use well-draining potting mix.

Displaying Your Divided Boston Ferns

One of the best parts of propagating your own ferns is deciding how to show off your new plants! Here are some of my favorite ways to display divided Boston ferns at home:

• Group several together in a large planter for a lush, full look.

• Place individual pots on plant stands at various heights for interest.

• Hang small ferns in macrame or wire baskets.

• Set ferns among other houseplants to provide texture.

• Use ferns as living centerpieces on tables and shelves.

Caring for Mature Divided Boston Ferns

Once your Boston fern divisions have reached maturity, caring for them is blissfully easy. Follow these tips to keep them looking their best:

• Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil becomes dry. Avoid soggy soil.

• Mist fronds daily or place pots on pebble trays for humidity.

• Feed monthly during growth with dilute liquid fertilizer.

• Keep indoor temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).

• Wash fronds occasionally with room temperature water to remove dust.

• Repot when roots fill pots, usually every 2-3 years.

Enjoying the Rewards of Boston Fern Division

From saving money on buying new plants to having fun displaying your new ferns, propagating your own Boston ferns is extremely rewarding. I hope these detailed dividing tips help you successfully multiply your specimens.

If your love for indoor gardening is growing like your new ferns, try dividing and propagating other houseplant favorites like spider plants, pilea peperomioides and pothos vines. Enjoy!