Autumn Fern

It's best to water this fern regularly, and not allow it to dry out between waterings. Too little water will cause the fronds to yellow and wilt, but too much water can lead to root rot. The fronds should always feel moist but not soggy.

The Autumn Fern thrives in part to full shade, and it tolerates some morning sun. With too much sun, the fronds can discolor, so it is best to avoid hot sunny spots. It is post to direct sunlight and an important note to be mindful of is to never allow it to dry out.

This fern loves to stay cool in the spring and summer. Higher temperatures in the 80s or 90s Fahrenheit (27-33 Celsius), is considered too warm for the Autumn Fern. The ideal temperature range for this fern is between 50-72 degrees Fahrenheit (10-22 degrees Celsius). It is considered a cool-weather plant.

The Autumn Fern will do well in areas with high humidity, but it tolerates lower humidity levels. Install a humidifier in rooms with low humidity or mist the fern regularly to provide enough moisture for the fronds. Nothing will stop the growth of the Autumn Fern in high humidity levels.

The Autumn Fern is a moderate to heavy feeder and needs a well-ventilated soil with plenty of organic matter to do its best. It does best in moist, well-draining, loamy soils. Peat moss, compost, and humus make excellent choices for Autumn Ferns.

Fertilizing the Autumn Fern is not necessary, however, if the soil is poor or the foliage looks unhealthy, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10. Apply this fertilizer once during the growing season, in the spring. It is best to dilute the fertilizer and apply it around the base of the fern, being careful to not get any fertilizer on the fern's leaves.

The pests most likely to cause problems for the Autumn Fern are aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects, and nematodes. To minimize infection by these harmful pests, keep the fern dry and ensure it’s receiving adequate sunlight. If you do find any signs of infection, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil that is specifically formulated for the pest problem. There are also sticky barriers available for sale at garden centers that can be placed on the plant to prevent the pests from getting to the foliage. Also, keeping the leaf surfaces free of dust and immersing the plant in soapy water will help to ward off any pests.

This with most ferns, it is best to repot in spring when the new fronds are emerging. This ensures the plant has adequate access to the nutrients it needs for healthy growth. The Autumn Fern prefers a well-ventilated, nutrient-rich soil that is slightly acidic. Choose a potting mix specifically made for ferns.

The Autumn Fern does not require pruning, but if desired, prune to shape just before new spring growth appears. But, because the fronds of the Autumn Fern do not last for long, pruning is usually not necessary.

Mulching will help keep the soil moist and cool while preventing weeds from intruding. Use a mulch such as bark, peat or compost, keeping it away from the base of the plant about 6 inches (15 cm). Avoid using natural mulches, as they can decompose, blocking drainage and adding an excess of nitrogen that the plant doesn't need.

Propagation of the Autumn Fern is a simple process. Divide the clumps of rhizomes in the spring or early fall. Each piece of the clump should have some roots or buds. Plant the divisions in soil with some compost mixed in and water the newly planted divisions. Keep the soil moist and soon the fern will take root and start to grow. You can also propagate the fern by division of its offshoots.

The Autumn Fern does not require any support or additional staking. Its clumping rhizomes will prevent toppling.

The Autumn Fern has a relatively short rest period and in the depth of winter, its fronds will die off and be replaced in spring with new fresh growth. To keep it looking at its best, remove any dead fronds

No, the Autumn Fern is not toxic to pets.