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How to Propagate Boston Fern
How to Propagate Boston Fern. Boston Fern is one of the most popular houseplants because it is easy to grow and, given proper care, can survive bright indoor conditions for many years. Boston Fern has arching fronds, making it an excellent hanging plant. When it grows lush and overflows from its planter, it's time to divide and propagate it into...
Boston Fern is one of the most popular houseplants because it is easy to grow and, given proper care, can survive bright indoor conditions for many years. Boston Fern has arching fronds, making it an excellent hanging plant. When it grows lush and overflows from its planter, it's time to divide and propagate it into several new plants. Here are some tips on how to propagate the Boston Fern.
Things You'll Need
Containers for young plants
Potting medium
Pruning shears
Newspaper
Water
Gather the materials you will need. Prepare the containers (or garden locations) for the propagated ferns so that you can transfer the new plants to their destinations quickly and minimize the plants' stress and exposure from the breakaway. Use potting medium or soil that is loosely aerated and drains well. Spread out some newspaper to protect your work surface and make cleanup easier.
Water the mother fern. Moistening the roots prevents breakage that tends to happen when the roots are dry and brittle. Moisture also keeps the plant from drying out during the propagation process.
Remove the mother fern from its pot. Grasp the neck of the plant just above the soil, gently pull the whole plant out of the pot, and then lay it on the newspaper.
Divide the root ball into sections or clusters. Make sure each division is a complete cluster of fronds. A cluster is easy to recognize because it has a well-defined root ball with layers of old fronds surrounding younger fronds in the center.
Trim the new fern clusters. Prune the oldest fronds from each cluster by cutting them close to the neck of the plant. Leave about five or six young fronds. Cut off roots that have become too long or appear brittle and dead.
Plant the new clusters. Place the fern clusters in their designated containers or locations in the garden. Spread the roots in the soil to promote healthy growth. Making sure the neck of the plant is at ground level.
Gently pack the soil around the new ferns and water generously. Keep the new plants in a bright but shaded location.
Tips & Warnings
Dividing the root ball does not require tools. Simply pull the clusters apart with your fingers. A knife might be necessary if the root ball has become tightly bound.
Boston Ferns thrive in moist and humid conditions. They should be allowed to dry out a bit between waterings.
Boston Fern (scientific name Nephrolepis exaltata) is sometimes referred to as Sword Fern.
