Birds Nest Fern Care: The Trending Houseplant You Need to Know About

Bird's Nest Ferns are a popular houseplant that is widely loved for their vibrant green foliage and unique shape.

Native to tropical regions, these plants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance.

In this article, we will cover all aspects of bird's nest fern care, from when to plant them to troubleshooting problems that may arise. So, if you're looking to add a touch of green to your home, read on to learn how to care for this lovely plant.

All About Bird's Nest Fern

As the name suggests, Bird's Nest Ferns get their name from their unique shape, which resembles a bird's nest.

The plant has a rosette of fronds that grow out from a central point, giving it a bushy appearance.

These ferns are native to tropical rainforests and can be found in many parts of the world, including Australia, Southeast Asia, and Hawaii.

When To Plant Bird's Nest Fern

Bird's Nest Ferns can be grown indoors or outdoors, depending on your climate. If you live in a region with a warm and humid climate, you can plant your fern outdoors.

However, if you live in a colder climate, it's best to grow your fern indoors. These plants prefer temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C) and thrive in high humidity.

Caring For Bird's Nest Fern

Light & Temperature

Light and temperature are two important factors when it comes to Bird's Nest Fern care. These plants prefer bright, indirect light, which means that they should be placed near a window that gets filtered light or in a well-lit room that doesn't receive direct sunlight.

Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn or wilt. In terms of temperature, Bird's Nest Ferns are tropical plants and thrive in warm temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C).

They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C), but anything below that can damage the plant. Avoid placing your fern near drafty windows or air conditioning vents, as this can cause temperature fluctuations that can be harmful to the plant.

Water & Humidity

Bird's Nest Ferns require consistent watering and high humidity to thrive. It is essential to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, while underwatering can cause the plant to wilt and die. In addition to regular watering, Bird's Nest Ferns require high humidity levels to keep their fronds healthy and lush.

You can increase humidity levels by placing a tray of pebbles filled with water beneath the pot or by using a humidifier. Regular misting of the foliage can also help maintain humidity levels.

Soil

Bird's Nest Ferns prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal for these plants. Avoid using heavy, compact soil mixes that can retain water and lead to root rot.

Fertilizer

Bird's Nest Ferns require regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) and every other month during the dormant season (fall and winter).

Be sure to dilute the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions and apply it to moist soil.

Repotting

Bird's Nest Ferns should be repotted every two to three years to give them fresh soil and room to grow.

Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current pot and make sure it has drainage holes. Gently remove the plant from its old pot and loosen the roots.

Place the plant in the new pot and add fresh soil around the root ball, making sure to keep the crown of the plant at the same level as before. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting.

Propagation

Bird's Nest Ferns can be propagated through division. To propagate, gently remove the plant from its pot and divide the root ball into sections. Each section should have a few fronds and a healthy root system.

Plant each section in its own pot with fresh soil and water thoroughly. Keep the new plants in a warm, humid location and mist regularly until new growth appears.

Pruning

Pruning is not necessary for Bird's Nest Ferns, but it can help maintain their shape and encourage new growth.

To prune, simply remove any dead or yellowing fronds at the base of the plant. You can also remove any fronds that are damaged or growing in an undesirable direction.

Avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant at a time, as this can cause stress and slow growth.

Troubleshooting Bird's Nest Fern Problems

Growing Problems

Bird's Nest Ferns can sometimes suffer from growing problems, such as stunted growth or pale foliage.

These problems can be caused by a lack of nutrients or too much water. To address these issues, make sure your plant is receiving enough fertilizer and adjust your watering schedule as needed.

Pests

Bird's Nest Ferns are generally pest-resistant, but they can attract spider mites or mealybugs if they are not properly cared for.

These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent infestations, make sure to keep your ferns clean and dust-free.

Diseases

Bird's Nest Ferns can be susceptible to root rot or fungal diseases if they are overwatered or exposed to damp conditions.

To prevent these problems, make sure your plant is not sitting in water and that the soil is well-draining.

If you notice any signs of disease, such as wilting or discoloration, remove the affected fronds and treat the plant with a fungicide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I cut the brown tips off my birds nest fern?

Yes, you should cut the brown tips off your Bird's Nest Fern. Brown tips are a sign that the frond is dead or dying and can no longer contribute to the plant's health or appearance.

Using a pair of clean, sharp scissors, simply snip off the brown portion of the frond at the base. This will help keep your fern looking healthy and prevent the dead tissue from spreading to other parts of the plant.