The fern is a very popular plant both indoors and outdoors, not only for its attractive appearance, but for the sensations of freshness and vitality it brings to the home. One of the most frequently asked questions that arises when purchasing a fern is: where to place it so that it grows healthy and splendid? Below, we will tell you everything you need to know so that your fern is in the perfect place and you can give it the care it needs.
Ferns are very old plants, present on Earth since the time of the dinosaurs, and continue to be a decorative option in homes all over the world. However, their beauty and lushness depend greatly on their environment, as they need specific conditions of humidity and light. For this reason, It is essential to know the ideal place to place your fern and how to keep it healthy.
Basic requirements of fern
Being native to tropical regions, the fern is a plant that loves humidity and shade. One of the most important keys is to avoid direct sunlight., as it can burn its delicate leaves. Dry or draughty environments are also not conducive to it, so finding the right place in your home is essential.
Indirect light is your best companion. Therefore, placing your fern in spaces close to windows, but without too much direct sunlight, is ideal. Ferns need a shady environment, but not too much, since without the necessary light they will not be able to carry out photosynthesis correctly and will weaken.
Another important factor is temperature. Although ferns can withstand variable temperatures, it is best to keep them within a range between 15 and 24 degrees centigrade, which mimics the conditions of its natural habitat.
The best place inside the home
There are certain places in the home that are perfect for ferns. One of them is bathroom, thanks to the humid conditions that tend to be concentrated there. Ferns love ambient humidity, so a well-lit bathroom could be the perfect place for your plant to grow in all its splendor.
If you prefer to have your fern in another area of the house, the DINING, bedroom or Tickets are also good options, as long as it is not exposed to constant air currents. Avoid placing it near open doors or windows that can create a flow of cold or hot air.
Furthermore, according to Feng Shui, ferns are plants that bring balance, well-being and prosperity. Placing a fern in the southeast corner of your home is associated with energies that promote wealth and abundance.
In short, the ideal place to place a fern at home is a space with indirect light, without drafts and with a good dose of humidity. Completely avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or placing it near appliances such as heaters or air conditioners that can dry out the environment.
Essential care for your fern
Image - Wikimedia / Mokkie
Once you have placed your fern in the right place, it is important to provide it with the necessary care to keep it healthy. Irrigation is one of the most important factors in the care of this plant. Ferns need a soil that is always moist but well drained, so it is advisable to water the plant several times a week, depending on the time of year and the climate.
Recommended water them daily in summer, when temperatures are high and evaporation is greater. In winter, when temperatures are cooler, you can reduce watering, but without letting the substrate dry out completely.
On the other hand, spraying the leaves This is essential if you live in a dry area or have a dry climate. Ferns need a humid environment, both in the soil and in the air, so spraying water on their leaves is a great way to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.
Fertilizer and manure
Another key point in caring for the fern is the subscriber. Although it is not an extremely demanding plant, it will appreciate an extra supply of nutrients during the months of greatest growth, which are usually spring and summer. Use a Liquid fertilizer in the irrigation water every 15 days to ensure your fern gets all the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.
The type of substrate is also important. Make sure you plant it in one that is rich in organic matter and that it provides good drainage, since ferns do not tolerate waterlogging. If the substrate is too compact, it will be more difficult for the roots to breathe properly, which can affect the development of the plant.
Common problems in ferns
Despite being fairly hardy plants, ferns can suffer from some problems if not properly cared for. For example, if your fern's leaves start to turn yellow, yellowish, this could be a sign of too much light or lack of water. Observe the environment in which it is placed and adjust the conditions if necessary.
Another relatively common problem is the appearance of Brown spots on the leaves. This could be due to exposure to direct sunlight or lack of humidity. Leaves may also dry out and crack if the environment is too dry.
The pests are not strangers to ferns either. Sometimes they can be affected by scale insects or spider mites. To avoid these problems, it is best to check the plant from time to time and keep it clean. In case of infestation, you can use Natural medicine, such as neem oil.
What to do if your fern dries out?
Sometimes ferns can start to dry out, and although it may seem difficult, not all is lost. One of the main reasons why this happens is the lack of moistureIf you notice your fern starting to dry out, make sure to increase the humidity around the plant. You can do this by spraying water on its leaves or placing a saucer of water nearby so the plant can absorb more moisture from the environment.
In other cases, the problem could be insufficient irrigation. Make sure to check the substrate regularly and adjust the amount of water according to the plant's needs and weather conditions.
Ferns are plants that, while they require certain specific care, can contribute a lot to the decoration and well-being of your home. Placing them in their proper place, providing them with the correct light and humidity, and paying attention to any signs of problems will ensure that your fern grows happily for years.