Maidenhair ferns aren’t supposed to be the most challenging plants to care for, but for me, they seem to have a death wish, and I’ve failed numerous times to keep them alive. However, the Maidenhair ferns I planted in my terrariums are doing great! Maybe I should define “doing great.” First, they are still alive after a year, and second, they are growing. I recently bought another maidenhair fern and am trying to provide the perfect environment and care for Bernie.
My grandmother loved ferns, and that love of ferns passed to me. She didn’t have Maidenhair ferns, however. So why am I a glutton for punishment? I love the graceful Maidenhair fern, and I will continue to try to master their care.
Maidenhair ferns are one of the world’s most popular types of ferns. They are prized for their delicate leaves and graceful appearance. But Maidenhair ferns are unique.
Maidenhair ferns are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. They thrive in warm, humid environments and prefer partial shade (i.e., rainforests, near waterfalls, and other damp locations). The title Maidenhair fern, Adiantum genus, actually applies to approximately 250 ferns. They all share a similar appearance: The leaves are thin and fragile, with a delicate network of veins running through them. The tips of the leaves are often curled or fringed. Maidenhair ferns come in various colors, including green, silver, and bronze.
So why are they so difficult to keep alive? Below are some of the reasons Maidenhair ferns struggle.
Typical reasons your Maidenhair fern begins dying off.
- Insufficient water
- Maidenhair ferns require consistently moist soil. Therefore, I water Bernie a little bit every day.
- Too Much Water
- Make sure the pot has drainage holes, so the roots don’t sit in water, which will cause them to rot.
- Too much light
- Maidenhair ferns like bright, indirect light.
- They will do best near a north- or east-facing window.
- Bernie is in an east-facing window.
- Insufficient Light
- I have a grow light for these plants as well.
- Low Humidity
- Maidenhair ferns prefer humid conditions. That’s why the terrarium provides the perfect environment.
- Another way to add humidity is by setting the pot on a tray of pebbles and water.
- Too Much Fertilization
- Poor Soil
For me, the beauty of maidenhair ferns lies in their simplicity. These plants have a delicate, graceful appearance unmatched by any other fern. Maidenhair ferns have challenged me but are a beautiful addition to my home. I hope I have inspired you to give maidenhair ferns a try!
Thanks for reading!