Maidenhair fern care: watering, light and repotting
Also called adiantum, maidenhair · Adiantum raddianum · Pteridaceae family
5 d in winter
How often to water the maidenhair fern?
Allow about 3 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 5 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Its soil must never dry out, not even for a day. Ideal in a bright bathroom or a terrarium.
Misting every 2 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The maidenhair fern is happy in a dim room, away from windows or facing north. It grows more slowly there, but copes well; above all, avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 1–1.5 ft (30–50 cm).
Common problems
Dry, shrivelled fronds
Cause: The root ball dried out. What to do: Cut it right back and water: it often regrows from the base.
Yellowing foliage
Cause: A draught or direct sun. What to do: Move it somewhere sheltered with soft light.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the maidenhair fern?
About every 3 days in spring and summer, and every 5 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the maidenhair fern?
The maidenhair fern is happy in a dim room, away from windows or facing north. It grows more slowly there, but copes well; above all, avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves.
Should you mist the maidenhair fern?
Yes, misting every 2 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the maidenhair fern?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the maidenhair fern safe?
No toxicity is known, but no veterinary source has confirmed it: to be safe, keep the plant out of reach of pets and young children.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Rather for experienced growers: it's demanding about watering, light or humidity. Some experience helps.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.