SWORD FERN
Nephrolepis exaltata
The sword fern or Boston fern is one of the iconic Victorian parlor plants, with its lush, refreshing green fronds that arch so gracefully. This humidity-loving plant has multiple benefits, softening corners, adding impact to dull spaces, and drastically improving air quality. It is a truly stunning fern.
I’ll remove toxins
I am very effective at preventing “sick building syndrome”—which is when people develop symptoms such as headaches and respiratory problems caused by their building environment. I can neutralize toxins in the air, such as formaldehyde and xylene, which are often found in building materials and new homes.
Let’s make babies
Look out for my baby plants or runners around the edges of my pot. Let them grow until they are around 2in (5cm) long and strong enough to cut off, then you can repot them in a container using a houseplant potting mix.
Keep me beautiful
Keep my fronds clean so they are better able to take in light, but avoid chemical wipes as I am quite sensitive; give me a quick shower instead. And turn me frequently, so every part gets light, to encourage symmetrical growth.
I will calm and soothe
Plant me in a hanging basket or place me on a pedestal so that my fronds can trail over the sides and cascade down. This will give a beautiful weeping-willow effect, providing a gentle, soothing presence in the room.
Help me feel at home
I like warmth and humidity, and happily grow in a bathroom or kitchen. In other rooms, you can mist me regularly or place me near a humidifier.
Help me thrive
POSITION Needs filtered light and grows well in warm, humid rooms, so keep it above 50°F (10°C) in winter but below 77°F (25°C) in summer.
POTTING Repot into the next size up when roots appear through the bottom of the existing pot or grow in circles inside. Use a rich but free-draining compost.
GROWTH RATE This fast-growing fern can reach a height and width of 2ft (60cm). Trim off old, discolored fronds from around the base to allow new growth.
CARE Keep the soil moist with rainwater or distilled water. If it drops to 60°F (15°C) or below, let the top third of the soil dry out before watering again.