How to Care for Boston Ferns
Here is a detailed explanation on how to care for Boston ferns and the cultivation methods and precautions for these green plants:
Boston ferns are perennial evergreen herbs. When cultivating, use loose and fertile slightly acidic soil, and place them in a semi-shaded area. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as this may slow down plant growth or even lead to withering and death. Additionally, Boston ferns have strict requirements for water, and it is necessary to master the watering methods and frequency to care for them properly. Let's discuss this in detail below.
1. Soil
Boston ferns are resilient and adapt quickly to their environment. They are suitable for cultivation in loose, fertile, and well-draining slightly acidic soil. A mixture of decomposed leaf soil, garden soil, and vermiculite in a ratio of 5:3:2 can be used as the growing medium. This mixture should be sterilized by sun-drying before use.
2. Light
Boston ferns should not be placed in areas with strong sunlight. They can be kept in semi-shaded areas or places with scattered light. When grown in a courtyard, avoid placing them near walls and provide about 60% shade, allowing them to receive about 4 hours of scattered light daily.
3. Water
Boston ferns have strict requirements for water and are intolerant to cold and waterlogging. Watering should be based on the dryness of the soil. Water should be added when the surface of the soil turns white, always keeping the soil moist but avoiding waterlogging, as this can cause root rot and leaf yellowing and dropping. During the dormant period, water sparingly. In summer, water 1-2 times a day and use a spray bottle to mist the plant and leaves, maintaining sufficient humidity.
4. Fertilization
Boston ferns do not require high amounts of fertilizer. During the growing season, fertilize every 15-20 days, mainly with nitrogen fertilizer. Between April and September each year, fertilize every 15 days with a dilute cake fertilizer solution.
5. Pruning
When the plant is vigorous with dense branches, pruning can be done to shape the plant. Remove long, tangled, and overlapping branches. Thinning the branches allows for better ventilation and promotes plant growth.
Have green plant enthusiasts understood the above content on how to care for Boston ferns, including the cultivation methods and precautions?