El fern It is one of the most fascinating and ancient plants that exist, perfect for decorate your house, terrace or gardenIts natural elegance and air-purifying ability make it a favorite species for both indoor and outdoor use, as long as basic care is followed to keep it beautiful and healthy. This guide brings together the most up-to-date and detailed information so you can learn. how to care for ferns and enjoy its exuberance year after year.
Characteristics and curiosities of ferns
Ferns, considered authentic living fossils, are among the oldest plants on the planet. They have no flowers or seeds; instead, they reproduce by spores located on the underside of their leaves (fronds). This peculiarity gives them a unique appearance and makes them very resistant.
There are thousands of species of ferns, which can vary in leaf shape, size, and color. Some popular examples are the nephrolepis high (sword fern), Asplenium nidus (bird's nest) or Pteris creticaFerns can live in different climates, although they prefer tropical, equatorial, and Mediterranean regions.
In addition to their beauty, ferns They are not toxic to pets In most cases, this makes them a safe option for homes with pets. They provide freshness, increase humidity, and improve the energy of a space, according to Feng Shui.
Ideal location for ferns
Choosing the right location is key to the fern's well-being. Avoid direct sun, which can burn its leaves, except for the elk horn, which tolerates a little more light. Place it in places with intense but indirect light, such as near windows with light curtains or in rooms with good natural lighting.
El bath It's usually one of the best places, thanks to the high humidity and the absence of drafts. It's also recommended to avoid passageways, near doors, or where they might receive blasts of cold or hot air from air conditioners or heaters, as these devices they dry out the environment quickly.
Outdoors, ferns appreciate being protected from strong winds and partial shadeIf conditions permit, they can thrive on shaded patios, terraces, or balconies.
Essential care of ferns
- Light: They prefer indirect or diffused light. If they're near a window, use curtains to filter the rays.
- Temperature: Keep them between 15 and 24 ° CThey are sensitive to frost and extreme heat.
- Humidity: Ferns require humid environments. Spray the fronds with water several times a week, especially in dry environments.
- Irrigation: Water them regularly to keep the substrate moist, never waterlogged. In summer, you can increase the frequency; in winter, reduce watering.
- Subscriber: Use liquid fertilizer every 15 days in spring and summer, mixed with the irrigation water.
- Substratum: They prefer soils rich in organic matter, loose and well-drained, such as a mixture of compost and peat.
It is important to check the leaves periodically: remove any dry ones and wipe off the dust with a damp cloth to facilitate photosynthesis.
Common problems and solutions
- Yellow or dry leaves: It could be due to a lack of moisture, inadequate watering, or direct sunlight. Adjust these factors to improve the plant's condition.
- Deformations and stickiness: It's usually caused by pests like mealybugs. Remove them manually with a cotton swab moistened with vegetable oil.
- Dull, growthless fronds: They need more nutrients. Change the substrate or fertilize regularly.
- Fungal diseases: Excessive humidity and poor drainage promote fungi such as botrytis. Reduce watering and improve ventilation.
If you detect pests such as aphids or mites, use specific products or natural remedies like neem oil. To learn more about the species best suited to your space and how to care for each one, visit our section on types of small ferns.
Fern reproduction and transplantation
The easiest way to multiply ferns is by division of bushesCarefully separate the plant into several sections, ensuring each section includes both roots and fronds. Do this in spring, when the plant is sprouting most vigorously. For specific tips on the process, check out our fern care guide.
Another technique is reproduction by spores, collecting those that form on the back of mature leaves and sowing them on moist, sterile substrate in a warm, humid environment. Some species can be propagated by stolons y elbows, which produce new plants from creeping stems.
Repotting ferns is recommended every two years or when the roots protrude from the holes in the pot. Take this opportunity to renew the potting soil and use larger pots to encourage growth.
Practical tips for healthy and long-lasting ferns
- regular cleaning: Remove damaged or dry leaves, clean dust, and check for pests regularly. To expand your knowledge, also check out our section on how to collect plants.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes: Place ferns away from sources of intense heat or cold.
- Choose species according to your space: There are hanging, trailing and erect ferns; select the right type for the place you want to decorate, such as hanging ferns.
- Monitor ambient humidity: If the air is very dry, use humidifiers or group your plants together to create a favorable microclimate.
Ferns bring life and freshness to any room, as well as being a symbol of prosperity and good energy. If you follow these tips and take care of their basic needs, you'll enjoy a lush, long-lasting plant in your home.