Secrets to Keeping Maidenhair Fern Alive

[@misscheesecake1952]

I just bought my first fern today (7/20/24) . Her name is Miss Ferny and I keep her in the bathroom. Thanks for sharing your tips. I will keep u posted on Miss Ferny's journey.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@misscheesecake1952, How exciting that you have a new plant friend! I love the name Miss Ferny. :) You're welcome for the tips. I'm glad they are helpful. Please do keep me posted on Miss Ferny's journey!

[@misscheesecake1952]

@@HealthyHouseplants Thank u. I will ☺️

[@sadiesjourney]

Am very blessed that maidenhair ferns grow naturally on our property in Bamfield BC. When I first discovered them I was shocked I had never seen them before. I felt like I had struck gold!!!!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Sonia Desrochers, That's great!! Yes, I would think I'd struck gold, too! :)

[@gillirezard2262]

My mother has had one growing for over 40 years in Australia!!! I just bought one in London and hope I can do the same!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Gilli Rezard, Wow, now that is an accomplishment!!! I think you can do the same--you are your mother's daughter! ;) Thanks for watching.

[@tonibauer2405]

That is amazing! I have a friend who inherited her grandfather’s Christmas cactus about that long ago, and moved it from Ohio to Seattle where it blooms happily every year. I guess they are supposed to be easy, but I am not good with them, while my maidenhair, which was kind of beat up when I got it cheap, is thriving.

[@alwaysyouramanda]

You should see what a staghorn can do in that much time!!!

[@tarantellalarouge7632]

Australia and England don't have the same conditions of climate for plants ! I hope you will succeed because this plant is picky and doesn't like any type of water, soil, temperature, etc....

[@alisoninwonderland8398]

I have a maidenhair fern who is such a diva I named her madonna. I have had it for over three years now and she is just starting to reach maturity. yay!!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Become The Butterfly, Thanks for watching! What a PERFECT name for a maidenhair fern! I love it! Congrats on keeping her thriving! :)

[@diannenaworensky6698]

WOW 3 years that's GREAT !! ✌🏻❤

[@sergiomubarqui9847]

I’ve lost my first one,... but now the second one it’s been alive, healthy and beautiful for almost a year. Thank you much for this video because I need to start applying some mist to them.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Sergio Mubarqui, Thanks for watching, and you're welcome. Good job on keeping your Maidenhair alive for a year! That's great!! :)

[@Doris-y5v]

dID YOU try her advise that is why they are alive?

[@lindseyhofman475]

I just bought rosy maidenhair fern 💜 they are so delicate and pretty. Im usually a over-waterer so i think we will be best friends

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Lindsey Hofman, Yes, the perfect match!! Have fun with your new pretty plant bestie! :)

[@TiffancySoFancy]

I just bought my first maidenhair fern, and I’m so glad I could watch this video and start off on the right foot! Fingers crossed...

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Tiffany Burkhart, Congrats on your new maidenhair fern friend! I'm really glad you watched the video, too! I'm sure you'll have success!! :)

[@MrWelfarehater]

Hi I have a maidenhair fern that I bought 6 months ago off Ebay, from GardenGals plants. It was beautiful, but I had to water it everyday, missed a day or two. The plant went into a death spiral. Almost lost all of the leaves. The plant turned really crispy not in a good way. Fortunately I am an avid African Violet grower. I removed the root ball, cut a 1 inch wide 8 inch long piece of commercial wicking mat. Looped the wicking mat through the drainage hole of the original pot. Placed the root ball back in the pot. Then placed the pot over a reservoir. Basically a homemade self watering pot. The plant recovered sort of at first. Since the maidenhair fern shares a led grow light with my extensive African Violet collection, it came back, until one day. It exploded. Usually there are about ten fronds popping up at once in a 5 inch pot. The self water pot is the trick. I actually converted all of my ferns to self watering. My opinion only, but I feel that is the difference between a crispy plant and success. I have a Bronze Maidenhair fern that I bought from Lowes almost a year ago. That plant had a wicking system set up, and after placing the plant in a reservoir, has grown quite well. The root ball stays wet, but I had have no issue with root rot. Pretty good video though.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

apmat nlif, Thanks for sharing. That's a great way to keep moisture lovers happy.

[@ireneowiredu-akrofi7772]

Thanks. Almost threw mine out. It’s doing very well now and gives me reasons to smile. Glad to hear it’s not me. Very finicky but truly a queen

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Irene Owiredu-Akrofi, You're very welcome. I'm glad she's doing well! :)

[@Jjgoutdoors]

I just rescued my first one from the discount rack at Lowe's.... So this video will help me to keep it healthy and alive 🙂 Thank you for taking the time to teach us and share your knowledge... I really appreciate it Blessings to you!! 🙏❤️💐🌸🌼🌺

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Gina, that's great! I love to rescue plants. Have fun with your new houseplant friend. :)

[@chanelnessman8666]

Thank you so much for this tutorial! I've watched a couple, but this one did it for me! I am such a hopeful to keep a maiden hair fern alive! I love them sooo much!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Chanel Nessman, You're welcome! And thanks for watching. So glad that the video helped and inspired you! I'm sure your maiden hair fern will thrive! :)

[@silverkiss37]

Stroking the soft maidenhair 💗🌿

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Kelly Ehrich, She is so soft! :)

[@felicia8330]

Thank you for the practical steps, this really helps me!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Felicia, You're very welcome. I'm glad the video helped you! Thanks for watching!

[@kimmienav268]

I just got one today so I am so happy to have found this video...thanks 😊

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Kimmie Nav, I'm very happy that you have a new plant friend and that you found this video, too! Thanks for watching! :)

[@claudenpascua7426]

I live in Texas and my fern doesn't look very good even if I water it every single day. So it's definitely indoor! This plant is such a divahh!! Thanks for the ideas!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Clauden Pascua, Thanks for watching, and you're welcome! Yes, definitely indoors, and quite a divahh!

[@plantpractitioner847]

Thanks for posting. Love Maidenhair fern...they can be tricky!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Plant & Nature Lover, You're welcome, and thanks for watching. They can be prima donnas!

[@Doris-y5v]

Thank you for your comprehensive advice

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Jenny, You're very welcome. Thanks for the feedback and for watching!

[@43bonbon]

Thanks! I loved this!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Bonnie Juran, You're very welcome! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!

[@lianevoelker9845]

The stone trick is so smart! I just bought my first maidenhair. Hopefully I can keep it alive.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Liane Voelker, Any added humidity does help maidenhair fern! Avoid letting the fern dry out, and provide any added humidity you can, and you'll do fine with your new plant!

[@angelagrima6911]

😅thanks for your helpful video,I have just bought one finger crossed

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@angelagrima6911, You're very welcome. Good luck!

[@faribaomari1982]

I just bought one today for my aquarium top ☺️hopefully it’s going to grow big

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Fariba Omari, That's great! I bet it'll thrive! :)

[@mariamelo2586]

Very good information

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Maria Melo, I'm glad the video is helpful! :)

[@fortheearth]

Great information, thank you.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

fortheearth, You're very welcome. I'm glad it was helpful. And thanks for watching!

[@charlottethomas608]

Oh my gosh.. stressed me out when you kept touching them because I've been told my so many people not to do this or they'll die 😂 Great video though and yours seem in excellent condition, so clearly you know what you're doing! ❤️

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Charlotte Thomas, Glad you enjoyed the video. They can take some touching. Of course, there's always too much of a good thing! But she was okay after the video. It was hard to not "pet" her while I was talking! But I don't do that everyday!

[@MoriMoriko3791]

This was super helpful!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Alexandra Fox, So glad to hear that, and thanks for watching!

[@DrValerie800]

Thank you! When I lived in northern California I had no problem with Maidenhair ferns. Then I moved to Arizona. O...M...G...tried to keep them alive for years, to no avail. Had them in pebble-lined trays that were always wet, misted them, etc, etc. Oh well. I will try again though and have saved your video.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Dr.Valerie800, You're welcome, and thanks for watching! Yes, the climate makes a HUGE difference. They love humidity. Glad you're going to try again! :)

[@CarrionCrow993]

Great vid. Off to plop my fern into a puddled planter 😊

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Makuraiac, Thanks, and thanks for watching! :)

[@dawnmcfarland7011]

I had one from a wonderful local greenhouse that steadily declined until it died in my care and I have one I found at Walmart that’s doing well almost a year later, lol.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Dawn McFarland, Congrats! That's wonderful that your maidenhair fern is doing well! :)

[@soulcandyalmadulce5885]

Greatly appreciating.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Glad you liked it!

[@kittybri8214]

...now I kinda regret buying this plant, I never knew that it needs constant attention...From now on I'll check what I'm getting before buying. But I guess it's not that bad as it only costed $4~

[@HealthyHouseplants]

kittybri, They are high-maintenance, but pretty! Just keep her in a place to remind you to water her and she'll be fine.

[@mytubemelinda]

totally agree. I made the same mistake

[@shep928]

Just killed my first 🤣

[@johnfensom428]

Healthy Houseplants h

[@believ100]

I'm in the process of killing my first one :(

[@RashaaL23]

Hallo senang bertemu dengan terimah kasih atas penjelasan tentang tanaman suplir atau maidenhair

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@Rashaal23, Terima kasih kembali

[@devanf17]

I just bought two beautiful maidenhair ferns today from my local nursery. I have 3 questions: 1. I usually use earthworm castings as fertilizer for my plants, is it okay to use it with this plant? 2. We have semi hard well water at the house. Would it be better to use distilled water or rain water instead? 3. What is your opinion on self-watering pots for this plant?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

devanf17, Congrats on buying your plants! 1) Most plants love earthworm castings, and Maidenhair ferns do as well. 2) If you find that the tips of the leaves start to brown, you will want to switch to distilled and/or rainwater. Rainwater is the best, but when that's not available distilled or reverse osmosis will also do. 3) The problem with self-watering plants is they are variable in how well they work. Some don't work well while others work too well, keeping the soil perpetually moist. While maidenhair ferns do poorly when dried out, they also don't like the soil to be too moist. You could experiment with one of your plants and see how it does. If it appears to be going downhill, take it out of the pot and repot in a regular pot.

[@joycechacko8207]

I saw a bunch of maidenhair ferns growing in my background and that's the first time I had ever seen these types of ferns. I just fell in love with it. So I thought I'd grow it indoors. But I've been struggling to keep it happy ever since. I've kept it in my bathroom. On a pebble tray. Where I check the moisture of the soil every single day. And yet it has this wrinkly look that just makes me so sad. I tried misting it once too but the next day it looked even worse. I'm guessing it could be because it wasn't a fine mist, as you have shown in your video. So this time maybe I will try that. Also, the place where I have kept it is a low light area. I keep the windows open so there is enough light. It's not dark. I read somewhere that low light should be bright enough to read a book. It is that bright; actually brighter especially in the evenings because it's close to a west-facing window. So many people have said that maidenhair ferns grow in low light so I thought it would fine. Do you think the leaves would become wrinkly because it's not getting enough light?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Joyce Chacko, did you dig the ferns up from your backyard? What type of soil are you growing them in? It sounds like a root issue. Let me know the soil you're using.

[@joycechacko8207]

Healthy Houseplants Hi, thanks for replying. I took the same soil from the backyard. It had a little bit limestone too. I've heard maidenhair like alkaline soil. So I took a little bit of that too, just a pinch. And I also added leaves and twigs in the soil mix to help with the drainage and give the plant some organic content. It's been only three weeks since I've got it in. But since half of the fronds dried off, I started to get worried. But there are three or four fronds right now that's still standing upright.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@@joycechacko8207, You're welcome. I thought you might have used outdoor soil. It doesn't work well to grow plants in containers in ground soil. What you want to do is repot the ferns in potting soil made for containers, and then they should do well. All of your growing conditions are fine. It's just the soil. Get a potting soil that drains well, but holds some moisture from your local home supply store or garden nursery. Let me know if you have anymore questions.

[@joycechacko8207]

@@HealthyHouseplants Thanks! I'll try that. Thank you for being so helpful. Your video was also quite informative; a lot more helpful than quite a few I had watched to figure out how to save my plant. Thanks a lot :)

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Joyce Chacko, Great, and you're welcome! Thanks for watching. :)

[@roxannegordon6162]

Thank you for showing your plants. Too many videos have the camera stuck on the persons face while talking about a plant they seldom show. Some hold it up for a few seconds, really, then put it out of sight. This was well done.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Roxanne Gordon, Thank you for your feedback, and I'm glad you found the video helpful! The way I see it, the plants are the stars of the show! 🌟

[@arcamia]

mine is swiftly dying :( wish I watched this video when I bought it! I was watering it at the bottom of the pot but I think it might have root rot now. thanks for the video!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Michelle Salmon, I do have a video coming up on what to do if you overwatered a plant. You might be able to save the plant!

[@arcamia]

@@HealthyHouseplants thanks! I hope so! I will watch for it

[@thegrudge4565]

Thank u for sharing.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

the grudge, You're welcome!

[@DR-tv9lg]

I've slowly 1/2 killed mine over the last 4-6 months. I've tried to always keep moist but obviously not enough!! I live in a very dry climate. Wondering if there is a mixture of soil that would help keep moisture in other than just miracle grow moisture retention soil?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

D R, It is touh to keep these princesses alive in a really dry climate. One of the problems with the moisture retention soil is the little water absorbing polymers in the soil only keep some parts of the soil moist, so they aren't as thorough as is necessary. Your best bet is planting in a soil that is high in peat moss, yet also has a draining agent, like pumice. Peat holds wet more uniformly than the polymers. It is also very helpful to mulch the plants, which will do a great job of retaining moisture in the soil. Here is a video on mulching your houseplants: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pH2kY5aVar96qac

[@rlagoy]

What type of soil should be used? Thanks for the video.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Renee, thanks for watching! I like to use a soil that is water retentive--especially for maidenhair ferns, since you don't want them to dry out. So avoid soils that are full of shredded bark and drain quickly. My favorite soil for this is ProMixBx. At the same time, you do want some drainage--so a soil that has some pumice or perlite is also good. (ProMixBx has that as well.) Let me know if you have anymore questions!

[@shagumagu8611]

I live in a tropical climate. Is your tutorial for that kind of climate .....n keep it indoor or outdoors? Thanks.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Prenna Menon, Thanks for watching. This tutorial is for growing maidenhair fern indoors in any climate. However, in a tropical climate, you can also grow maidenhair fern outdoors in shade. The plant needs to stay moist. If you have a lot of rain, which you probably do, it's also important that the pot drains well and the soil doesn't become overly wet, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.

[@shagumagu8611]

@@HealthyHouseplants is it true that one had to water the soil n never spray water on leaves?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@@shagumagu8611, You can mist maidenhair fern, but with a very fine mist, and it should be water that is not high in minerals. So the preferred water for misting would be reverse osmosis water.

[@karensconyersgrubbs9119]

I'm in Florida, growing my maidenhair indoors, and I rarely water my fern. It sits in a small platter which I keep filled with water. I haven't had any problems, but if I have to go out of town, I'll probably have to take it with me 😂🤣

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Karen Sconyers Grubbs, Growing maidenhair fern in Florida is good! They love the humidity. I've actually had people have me babysit their maidenhair ferns when they go on vacation! :)

[@karensconyersgrubbs9119]

@@HealthyHouseplants Yep.. just not sure who I could trust to actually do it...

[@AshaGona]

Hi Healthy Houseplants, thank you so much for the detailed video. Wish I watched it before. I have a couple of Maidenhair ferns. Initially I thought I don't need to water them that often but I noticed that the plant was dying. So I started watering them frequently and misting them as well. After I watched your video I understood what mistakes I made. Planning to get couple more cause they are just beautiful. Have a quick question. What kind of a fertilizer should we be using for these plants? I'm new to gardening and having indoor plants. If you could tell me more about the fertilizer that would help me. Thanks for this informative video once again :)

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Asha Gona, You're welcome, and thanks for watching. Maidenhair ferns like a light feeding of an all-purpose, organic, liquid fertilizer every two to three months. So get an organic fertilizer like a 5-5-5 or a 10-10-10--or something close to that. The package should say organic. The three numbers on the packaging are the NPK ratio, which denote the percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the fertilizer. These are the three main macronutrients that houseplants require. You want low NPK numbers, as that indicates the fertilizer is organic. Organic fertilizer is much less likely to burn plant roots. Maidenhair ferns are susceptible to fertilizer burn on the roots. So avoid getting something like a 20-20-20 or higher. Fertilize at half-strength. So if the directions say 1 tablespoon per gallon of water for liquid fertiizer, use 1/2 tablespoon. Let me know if you have anymore questions!

[@AshaGona]

@@HealthyHouseplants Awesome :) Thank you so much. Really appreciate it :)

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@@AshaGona You're welcome! :)

[@diannenaworensky6698]

@@HealthyHouseplants Perfect answer !! All the questions answered in one place.🙂🙂 ✌🏻❤

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@@diannenaworensky6698, Great!!! Glad to help. :)

[@olireid7577]

Thanks for this video cuz I don't know anything about taking care of house plants. I've never really given a shit about plants but recently I've decked out my room and I've got some baby tears and some maiden hair ferns.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

oli reid, Glad you found the video helpful. Good luck with your plants!

[@beya6253]

Hi! I just got a maidenhair fern and I'm trying to get as educated as possible on it! I was wondering what temperature water should I pour into the humidity tray?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Isabella, Thanks for watching! I'm really glad to hear about the new addition to your indoor garden! :) You can put cool or warm water in the humidity tray, because the bottom of the pot won't be in contact with it. The only time I might be more careful about the temp of the water is if you live in a very cold climate and it is winter time. Then I would warm it up a bit, so as not to chill the bottom of the pot where the roots are. Let me know if you have any more questions!

[@purplepoppy9612]

Would love to know the care for a Boston Fern.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Purple Poppy, Great idea! I'll add that to the list of upcoming videos. :)

[@nutcracker5094]

These grow so nicely all around our place , near the stairs outside , on the side of the hills etc but as soon as I bring them in ,they collapse

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Joyita Sen Das, Thanks for watching! You likely live in a humid climate? Do you also get regular rainfall? That is their favorite climate in which to thrive. Our homes tend to be much drier, even if we live in a humid climate, and of course, it generally doesn't rain indoors! So it makes it harder to keep them happy, but not impossible! It takes making sure they don't dry out and they get some humidity.

[@swatigupta5001]

Healthy Houseplants Really liked your video! I recent bought my first maidenhair fern plant and have been watching videos to learn tips for caring the plant. One of the new things I learnt from your video is using a moisture meter to assess the moisture level. Would you be able to recommend good brands to buy or which one has worked best for you so far? Also in regards to the fertilizer, what should be the ideal N-P-K ratio. I have one (Osmocote Plus outdoor and indoor) which has a ratio of 15-9-12. Would that work for this plant? Thirdly I am struggling to buy good potting soil - is there any that you can recommend. Would be great if you can help provide some guidance. Thanks in advance :)

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Swati Gupta, Glad you liked the video and found it helpful. To answer your questions, here is a moisture meter type that I find works well. It's simple and straightforward to use and well-priced: amzn.to/31f6T7E As for fertilizer, a 5-5-5 or 7-7-7, or something along those lines is good. You want an organic fertilizer that is not any higher than 10-10-10. I wouldn't use the osmocoate on the plant. It might burn the roots. As for potting soil, here are two that I like. You want a mix that is not barky and chunky, as those mixes drain too quickly and don't hold nutrients. Promix Potting Soil Link: Promix link: amzn.to/2ZJT8xt (There are various size bags) Happy Frog Potting Soil Link: amzn.to/32UDOiV Let me know if you have any more questions!

[@arizonamonarch]

I thought I was doing everything right, but this one is now over half gone and I could have sworn I saw videos saying not to mist them. I originally kept it like you have it in a bowl on elevated stones. Now it's in a bottom watering pot and it was doing fairly well, or so it seemed, until summer and the a/c was blowing on it. So I moved it but have yet to find a window it does good in and it may very well be too late. This is my third maidenhair failure. Heavy sigh

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Spry grl, Sorry to hear about your maidenhair fern. Misting is fine, but best if the water isn't heavy in minerals. They don't like drafts for sure. Were you able to find a good place for it?

[@arizonamonarch]

@@HealthyHouseplants yeah, I read that and used my filtered water only. I think it's just too dry in here and I stopped using a humidifier when my expensive instruments got mold on them. yikes! Oh well, it's the only one I seem to not have a green thumb for, so I'll just enjoy all of the other beautiful ferns I have.

[@sylviaburns2995]

Use distilled or (reverse osmosis) purified water bottles (for people) no minerals added. Tap water mat have minerals! Some "people" water bottles have added minerals. So... remember. Distilled water or purified water bottles for people with no minerals added!

[@poodleluv12]

Can I spray them every now and then with milk infusion? Is calcium good for them on that way?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Karolina Lovins, I wouldn't spray with a milk infusion, as the leaves are very thin and delicate and the spray will likely clog the stomata on the leaves, which is how the plant breathes. They do love spraying with a fine mist of water though.

[@thats0hboy]

I have a huge one I've been growing for about 8 months. she just barely started showing some stress. she's getting crispy on some stems

[@HealthyHouseplants]

thats0hboy, Sounds like you're doing a good job with her! As far as the stress, maidenhair ferns are really sensitive. Have you had any changes in her environment recently? Even the most minor changes can cause maidenhair fern to react. Like drier air, more sunlight...

[@hannahsjtrevino]

My maiden hair fern has some fronds with both green healthy looking leafs AND brown dead looking leafs on the same stem. Should I cut back the entire frond or just cut the brown ones from the stem??

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Hannah Trevino, Thanks for watching. If the stem is less than half affected by brown, go ahead and cut off just brown ones. However, if it's more than that, cut off the entire stem. If you cut off some leaves and the stem continues to die back, then cut off the whole stem. Let me know if you have anymore questions!

[@alhondrixx481]

@@HealthyHouseplants will they grow back? if so, how long do they usually take?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@@alhondrixx481 Yes, they will eventually grow back. It can take a few months to get to the size they were before the plant was droughted. But in time, they will grow back. If the plant lost a lot of leaves, however, you need to put it into a smaller pot. Or else it could get root rot.

[@emmakateneedham5885]

I got a maiden hair fern a week ago and I think that it is dying. The leaves are crisping up, I mist the plant couple times daily because I don’t know what to do. It’s in low sunlight, nothing direct. The bottom came with some brown leaves. Thanks in advance

[@deirdrebenavides98]

I had two die - definitely keep the soil moist. If it gets dry at all they'll never come back. After watching this video I got a moisture meter. House Plant Journal also has a helpful video about maidenhair ferns also that helped me. He covers the dying fronds (which are normal).

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Emma Kate Needham, Thanks for watching. Are you keeping the plant soil moist? They don't like to dry out at all. Misting is good, but you also need to make sure that the soil is moist. Or has the soil not dried out at all and is remaining really moist? That could indicate that the plant had root rot when you got it. Let me know and I can help further.

[@CallieCatGaming]

I can't get the hang of mine. I was watering every other day/as the soil dried and it started turning brown and getting crunchy. So I did some research and started misting it. It doesn't seem to be staying moist at all now, and seems to be wilting and looking droopy and sad. My house is usually around 73-78 degrees and I'm not sure about humidity. I'm not sure how to simulate humidity other than moving it to my bathroom lol

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Callie Cat, So the soil is continuing to dry out? Or the plant keeps wilting, but the soil is wet? If the soil is staying wet but the leaves are drying out and browning, that is likely root rot. But if the soil is drying out, then it's a matter of getting the plant into a soil that is more water retentive so it doesn't dry out as quickly and then also making sure to keep the plant watered. Maidenhair ferns do prefer it on the warmer side, so closer to 78 degrees if possible. If the bathroom has medium lighting and is warm, it could be a good place to put the plant, as they also like humidity, as you discovered.

[@bobvires9650]

I’m worried about my rosy maiden while being away for a week. Do you think It is safe to place the pot in a self watering tray for about 10 days?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Bob Vires, Most plants I would say not to do this, but with maidenhair fern I would suggest doing so, since they do so badly when not watered. I think she'll be okay if you put her in a self watering tray. Let me know how it goes, if you get a chance!

[@bobvires9650]

Thank you so much for your help! I will definitely let you know how she looks when I get back!

[@vidhikachoudhury3114]

Hello! I have planted my maiden hair plant in a glass pot without any drainage system. Will it survive ? Please do reply

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Vinnie Chw, Thanks for watching. It's usually not a good idea to plant in a pot without drainage holes/system. However, since maidenhair ferns do like to be kept moist, it might be okay. Just make sure that there isn't too much water in the soil. After you water, tip the container and let the excess water drain out. It's good it's in a glass container, so you can see how much water is in there. You want the soil moist, but not sopping wet and not watery. Let me know if you have any questions.

[@hollywood3356]

I have my first maidenhair fern. I think she was happy for the first three days and then things went downhill. I am trying to find the right location for her. I have gotten better about the water timing. She hasn't completely died and I am trying to prevent that from happening. She has some dead leaves and I am nervous to cut them off.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@hollywood3356, Watering, as you've found, is the tricky part of keeping Maidenhair Fern Alive. If she has some dead fronds, you do want to cut them off. Here is a revival video of a fern that got droughted that will help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/emiuimWml9qIl6M

[@Ezzalicious094]

I just bought my first mature maidenhair, including a baby variegated. Hopefully I won't kill them!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

MissZenki, That's very exciting!! I think with lots of attention that they'll do just fine for you! :)

[@Ezzalicious094]

@@HealthyHouseplants They are both doing really well. Both have given me 6-10 new fronds in a matter of weeks.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@@Ezzalicious094 That's great!

[@sebastianbatiao3465]

Is it ok to place them indoor everytine without sunlight..? ever.. just a light inside the airconditioned room. With a temperature not exceeding 27•c

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Sebastian Batiao, the ferns do need some light. If you can put them under artificial full-spectrum lighting in the air-conditioned room then you will have better luck.

[@libra11426]

I have quite a green thumb, but my fern is getting crispy. I think it's probably too late. I was misting everyday too. I'm bummed.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

greta 26, Sorry to hear that. :(

[@lizafs1070]

I have bought one and propagated to many by dividing. It's. Not hard to care but once summer hits they are not very nice looking unless I am very very careful and shift them indoors. Generally I leave them outdoors in the belcony. They don't like drafts too.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Aseesa Fernandez, Great advice. Thanks fo rsharing!

[@shannonnelson857]

My Maiden Fern is 1 year old and I don’t know what to do with her! She has gone crazy 😊 it is growing in every direction, I repotted it to a bigger self watering pot and ever since she hasn’t stopped growing. Do I need to propagate her? Gotten so big so fast It’s touching table. I mean it’s out of control! What to do??

[@sherylharris937]

Hello there!! I hope you can help me. So I brought a Maidenhair Vine like 3 weeks ago and i think I’ve over watered it. How can I save her? Please help!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Sheryl Harris, When you say you overwatered. Has she been sitting in water? What are her symptoms? Is she drooping? It might be that she had a problem before you got her. Let me know.

[@AC-bt2hb]

My maidenhair is alive, but the fronds dont stand up on their own. They sort of lay flat. Whats wrong with it? What can I do to get them to stand on their own? I checked and the fronds have not snapped or creased

[@HealthyHouseplants]

A Chokola, It could be that the plant is getting overwatered. That could be a sign of root rot problems. How often do you water? And is the bottom of the pot sitting in water--or has it in the past?

[@ohamoui]

Do you trim the dry stems?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

omaima salous, Yes, you can trim off the dry stems. Do so at the base of the plant.

[@Mondo_mog]

Any tips on keeping fittonia nerve plants? I can't seem to have any luck with them. I may be overwatering but I could also be under watering and don't know which, which is my dilemma. They're so fussy but beautiful when kept right.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

charlie davis, just seeing this. How is your fittonia now? They can be a little on the fussy side. It's generally a good idea to water them when they are still in the 3 on the moisture meter, so just before they dry out, but not dried out yet.

[@milanethington]

Just started watching videos Becuase mine started dieing. The problem was it was widdleing/ no humidity or moist soil. I cut off all the dead leaves and put it in my bathtub where it gets well lit with light but no shade or direct light

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Milan E, Yes, they don't like to dry out! How is the plant doing now?

[@milanethington]

@@HealthyHouseplants some of the leaves are still a bit curled up but immediately less curling

[@elliswondering7444]

My fern was sooooo sad when i got her, she perked up over summer but now shes going all sad again :(

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Ellis Wondering, Where do you have her growing. Indoors? Is she near a heating duct/hot air?

[@asuzetmolina]

Hello, I'm new to the plant community and purchased a Boston fern without knowing they needed high humidity where I live its dry. I left for a trip and came back to dried crispy leaves. I've put it next to a humidifier but my plant just looks really sad. Is it possible it's dead or do you think I could save it by keeping it next to the humidifier and trying to keep the soil moist?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Hi Betty Asuzet, Thanks for watching! Does the plant have any green left? If it does, it is still alive. Did the soil dry out as well? And you say you have Boston Fern. Boston ferns have thicker, bigger leaves than maidenhair ferns. A Boston Fern would be much easier to save than a maidenhair fern. Here is an article on the website about Boston Fern. Is this what the plant looks like? www.healthyhouseplants.com/index.php/boston-fern-growing-nephrolepis-exaltata.html If the plant still has green and is still alive, it's important to make sure to keep it well-watered, as well as humidify it. Let me know if you have more questions.

[@carinamedellin3909]

mine basically dried out :( what should i do

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Carina Medellin, Check out this video I did when you forget to water and the maidenhair fern dries out, This should answer your questions. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJ3QYYlmd7Gtiac

[@ingesexton811]

1:07 “and you haven’t succeeded “ …. What a nice way to say “so you murdered the most lovely and innocent plant you can fine ey, KILLER!” 😆

[@Doris-y5v]

my plant get everyday some brown tips and brittle, and brown and yellow tips, what is wrong? I mist it twice a day, put it in a tray for humidity and water it when is a bit dry soil and is in filter light so why is is like this ?? thanks

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Jenny D, Thanks for watching. It sounds like an issue of not enough moisture in the soil or in the air. Do you drench the soil when you water? You want to let the water run out the bottom of the pot when you water. Also, how dry does the soil get before you water? And how dry is the air in your home? Do you know the humidity level? Is it 40 percent or below? (You can find out with a hygrometer.)

[@Doris-y5v]

@@HealthyHouseplants I believe is the dry air because the soil is always moist and I mist it everyday but it still dies what can I do for the dry air >> ???

[@jocelynvilla3186]

I bought one in home depot !! I didn't know it not needed too much sun. I got foliage loss. All the leaves browned up and died BUT I see it has little tiny green foilage like it wants to grow. I'm trying hard to keep it alive still all the leaves died I left it in the sun too much

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Jocelyn Villa, You may get new fronts from the tiny ones. It will take some time. I would get it out of the sun and wait and see.

[@jadevt1939]

I've had 2 for about 4 years that have died and come back more times than I can count. I don't wated enough lol

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Jade 0955, Yep, they do like the water. But that's great they come back! They don't often do that. They must really like you! :)

[@jadevt1939]

@@HealthyHouseplants I'm currently trying to raise them almost directly in water. Had no idea they don't normally come back 😂

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@@jadevt1939 Usually they just give up! :) Let me know how it goes raising them almost directly in water!

[@danacapers8218]

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE YOUR VIDEO ON THESE PLANTS..I HAVE ONE AND ITS DRIVING ME CRAZY BECAUSE I DON'T KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO...YOU SAY NORTH LIGHT..SOUTH LIGHT..SORRY BUT I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THAT MEANS, I HEAR SO MANY PLANT PPL SAY THIS AND I REALLY HATE IT lol lol...IM SURE NOT EVERYONE KNOWS WHAT THAT MEANS..SO IF NEXT TIME YOU CAN SAY OR EXPLAIN THIS IN LAMINS TERMS I WOULD APPRECIATE THAT 😊...I DONT HAVE HER IN DIRECT LIGHT, I HAVE HER ON MY LIVINGROOM TABLE THAT GETS LOW TO MODERATE LIGHT..I WATER & MIST BUT NOTHING'S WORKING SHE CONTINUES TO BROWN & WILT AND LOOSING HER DARK GREEN COLOR..I'M ABOUT TO JUST GIVE UP ☹😟☹

[@monica11760]

Based on how your plant is responding, you can assume the light is not enough. To understand the lighting she talked about you need to know the position of your home. You can use a compass at your window, or you just need to know where the sun rises (that would be east) and where it sets (that would be west). Here is an article that might help you, too: East Window Plants: Growing Houseplants In East Facing Windows General Houseplant Care By: Raffaele Di Lallo, Your window exposure is very important when choosing which houseplants can grow there. Fortunately, there are many east window plants that you can grow. Eastern windows will typically get the gentler morning sun, but then have bright indirect light throughout the rest of the day. This is ideal for a wide variety of plants! It is important to note that not all windows are created equal. The size and type of window you have, in addition to any obstructions such has trees or other buildings, can have a great impact on the quality and amount of light that comes through. If your plant growth is weak or spindly, move it to a brighter location. Read more at Gardening Know How: East Window Plants: Growing Houseplants In East Facing Windows www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/hpgen/houseplants-in-east-facing-windows.htm

[@HealthyHouseplants]

DANA CAPERS, I'm glad you like the videos, and thank you for the comment about lighting. I will explain it more clearly in future videos! As an explanation, when I say northeast light, etc., it means that the windows in the room face the northeast, or whereever is being mentioned. So Northern Exposure window is a window on the side of your house that faces north. Hope that helps!

[@ourlittlefamily8342]

What are signs of root rot?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Amir HR, Thanks for watching. Signs of root rot in Maidenhair fern and other plants are drooping foliage when the soil remains wet. A squishy stem, particularly where the stem meets the soil, is another classic sign. Leaf loss and yellowing of leaves is another sign. A musty or mildewy smell coming from the soil is another sign. And a really big sign is mushrooms growing in the soil. Hope that helps. Let me know if you have anymore questions!

[@sarahchristine6025]

Hello! I just bought mine two days ago. I noticed than instead of the deep green, the leaves are slowly getting paler (like yellow green). I have it on my desk with an eastern facing window and I just started it on a humidity tray. My desk is in a direction of AC so I try to direct the air away from it. I’m just worried that I’ll dry it out. Does it need more moisture? (Like through a mister/humidifier). Thank you!!!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Sarah Christine, the drafty air from the AC can be problematic. Good you are directing the air away, but yes, it does need humidity. The humidity tray is a good idea. You may also want to mist several times a day, if possible. Is the soil drying out quickly?

[@monicadhondage9220]

Hi I have a maiden hair plant, it was doing well when I got it. Right now, it has a few lraves browning up. It has lost some volume and doesn't seem as full as it was before. It lives in indirect, bright light and there is natural humidity in the atmosphere. Can you please tell me what am I doing wrong?

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Hi Monica Dhondage, thanks for watching. Tell me about your watering of the fern. Though they like to stay moist, it is possible to overwater them, which could cause those symptoms. It's also important that the bottom of the pot doesn't stay moist. How often do you water? And what type of water are you using? Water that is high in chlorine and minerals such as fluoride can also cause browning leaves and some leaf browning. If you think it may be the water, try using reverse osmosis or distilled water to water the fern. If you suspect the water, it would also be good to repot it in fresh organic soil. If you repot, put it in the same size pot or even a little smaller of a pot. You want the plant pot ratio to be one-third pot to two-third plant. So the plant is bigger than the pot. How is the ratio now? Also, you maention having good humidity. Do you know the actual humidity level? They prefer at least 50%, but really like it more humid than that. Let me know and I can help you narrow down the problem further.

[@monicadhondage9220]

Thank you for the details! The water should not be the problem but as a safety precaution I will start using reverse osmosis. I water them only when the top soil feels dry to touch. I have started misting just recently since it is summer here. The humidity is between 60-70% here. The plant is in its original plastic planter, not too huge not too small for the fern.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@@monicadhondage9220 You're welcome. That is a great humidity level, and they also like additional misting, so that's good. Since it is warmer now where you are, you might need to water a little more frequently. I also think switching to reverse osmosis would be a good idea. It could also be a buildup of salts in the soil, which can happen over time. Have you repotted it since you got it? Now would be a good time to repot with the warm weather.

[@monicadhondage9220]

Healthy Houseplants Thank you! I think it needs more water now, especially for summer, i got it in March this year. I'll try and repot it, mist it, water it a bit more for the summer. I'll post an update after a month👍🏼Thanks again for your help 😊

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@@monicadhondage9220 You're welcome! Glad to help. Please do post an update. :)

[@DejaDrewit]

What drives me crazy is i am horrible with plants and the lady at the store told me this is a low maintenance plant. Well it didn’t take long for me to kill it. Now it won’t grow back. It has some new green leaves but been that way for many months

[@e7702]

For fertilizing, do you also feed them in the winter??

[@HealthyHouseplants]

E, Thanks for watching. I generally recommend that you avoid feeding in winter, because the plant growth has slowed down considerably. Resume feeding in mid-March.

[@e7702]

@@HealthyHouseplants Thanks for your help! I will do that.

[@kattsmith1500]

I have a maidenhair that my mom was really struggling with so she gave it to me - i have really been battling with it. She potted it in a self watering pot and I struggle to know when it’s in need of another water. I’m afraid of overwatering. My moisture meter shows WILDLY different readings in different parts of the soil. I still think there is hope for this plant.. it has little baby fronds ready to unroll... I just don’t know what to do for it

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Katt Smith, Thanks for watching. That is good that the plant has some little fronds. You want to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. So when the top of the soil is dry to the touch, you can water. The pot itself should be lighter weight, if you can pick it up. So once the pot starts to become lighter in weight, water. However, if the moisture meter is showing really different readings in different parts of the soil, there could be a problem with either the moisture meter, or the soil may be high in salt in some areas. So that's one thing to think about. High salt i the soil will damage plant roots and can kill the plant. Maidenhair ferns wouldn't react well to high salts in the soil. I have another video on using a moisture meter that touches on that, as well as a video on the problem with high salts. Here are those links:kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIClmZ-Aer1-Zq8 and kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqPWmoGuhpyShpY. Another thing to keep in mind is that you don't want the plant in too big of a pot, as that can lead to root rot. You should have a 1/3 pt to 2/3 plant ratio. Another video on that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIncaYpup99ge8U Let me know if you have anymore questions.

[@diannaanderson5475]

with brown leaves what do u do? Great video!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Dianna Anderson, Thanks and thanks for watching. You can cut off brown leaves, but if you're getting a bunch of brown leaves the plant is likely being kept too dry.

[@diannaanderson5475]

Oh ok will keep watch!

[@bluelavender7773]

Thank you so much for this helpful video!! ♥️👍🏻 I have a Maidenhair fern Divah too, in a 12 cm pot. It sits in a bright north facing window, at around 21-23 celsius temperature and 50-60 humidity. I mist it daily. Do you think that watering every 2 days is too often? I noticed that its new leaves are way smaller than the ones that she had when i bought it, and much darker green. Why is this? Can it be too much water? The pot has draining halls and is not sitting in the water. Sometimes it gets new leaves with brown spots. Mainly at the tips of the fronds. Thank you!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Blue Lavender, You're very welcome! I'm glad the video was helpful! It sounds like your Divah has the perfect setup! Maidenhair ferns often need watering every 2 days, unlike most other houseplants. If she is doing well with the watering schedule, then do continue. However, she may change her watering requirements a bit during changes in seasons. You want her to be drier than when you last watered when you water her again. So if she is still heavy with water and very moist, then wait a day. Otherwise, keep up what you're doing, especially if she's thriving! Let me know if you have anymore questions.

[@bluelavender7773]

@@HealthyHouseplants Hello ♥️ Thank you for the reply!! I am checking daily the soil, with my fingers. I press or fill the fingers into the soil a bit, and then i rub my fingers. If i feel them wet, i dont water. If i feel them on the dry side, i water the fern. I was worried to not water it too often, and slowly, slowly to cause her root rot. The only weird thing is that the size of the leaves (not the lenght of the fronds) grow smaller than those she had when i bouth it. By the way it did little spores on some leaves :). Really this gorgeous plant deserves all the care. Thank you again for your reply and kindness to help us all ♥️

[@mariaescamilla6944]

They are super difficult to keep,i had one but i guess i did something wrong and now i am struggling to bring it back to normal but with this tips i got an idea 💡

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Maria escamilla, Glad you got a good idea! My other video on them and reviving them after undewatering might also help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJ3QYYlmd7Gtiac

[@janedoe1790]

In Australia maiden hair fern grows out of moist sandstone walls. No one looks after them.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Jane Doe, Very cool!

[@nakeishathomas2099]

My girl is drying out. I hope she could stay alive and thrive

[@HealthyHouseplants]

nakeisha thomas, they do dry out quickly, so keep an eye on her, and try a humidity tray and misting during the day.

[@salehasyed7201]

U have 2 plz gimme one🤪 can't find it near me

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Saleha Syed, Hope you find one of these beauties soon! :)

[@salehasyed7201]

@@HealthyHouseplants yup! Hopefully 🤞 .. thanx🙂

[@weedsnwildflowers]

My maiden hair fern is stressing me out. I just can’t find a spot is happy in in my house.

[@HealthyHouseplants]

K. Monk, Sorry to hear that! What has happened in the post you've put her? Has she dried out? A location away from windows and heating and air conditioning ducts is best.

[@astridebalgalvis7485]

Orchids report root

[@silntSilvr21]

Mealybugs destroyed mine but it was outside .

[@HealthyHouseplants]

Silvia Pena, thanks for sharing. Are you in a tropical climate? Mealybugs love that type of climate. Warm and humid and they will thrive.

[@silntSilvr21]

@@HealthyHouseplants yes it was your right!

[@HealthyHouseplants]

@@silntSilvr21 The good news is that maidenhair ferns do really well indoors in tropical climates, because they love the humidity. So if you get one at the nursery/home and garden store in the future and keep the mealybugs away, it could do well for you indoors!

[@Robertocorio]

Subtitles!