Spear fern, old-fashioned plant with modern style
Spear fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), sometimes called snake fern or just classic fern, is a true classic among old-fashioned houseplants. With its airy, arched leaves, it is both decorative and easy to care for.
This is a large fern that gives a leafy impression with its green leaves.
If you want a houseplant that feels both nostalgic and trendy, spear fern is an excellent choice!
Growing spear fern indoors, care and placement
Having a fern indoors is not difficult, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your nephrolepis is as healthy as possible.
Light
Spear ferns thrive best in indirect light. Place them in a bathroom with a window, a bright corner, or in a spot out of direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, while too dark a location will cause them to lose their vigorous form. This fern can tolerate relatively low light conditions and is therefore suitable where other plants cannot stand.
Watering and humidity
Ferns often want even moisture and wet soil. This is where spear ferns differ, as they absolutely do not like to stand in wet soil. However, a severe drought can quickly cause the leaves to wilt or turn yellow. It is better to water a little and often, and feel free to shower the leaves if the air is dry. Humidity is the key to a healthy and large fern.
Soil and nutrition
Plant in airy, well-drained soil, preferably a mix for green plants, like our peat-free soil. During spring and summer you can give weak nutrition every other week. Repot every other year, especially if the roots start to fill the pot.
Fern in a pot outdoors, is that possible?
Yes, having a fern like spear fern in a pot outdoors works great during the summer months, as long as the location is shady or semi-shady. Bring the plant inside before the autumn frosts arrive, as spear ferns cannot tolerate cold.
Frequently asked questions about ferns and spear ferns
My spear fern is losing leaves, what do I do?
Yellowing or drying leaves are usually caused by drought, dry air or too much sun. Cut off any damaged parts and adjust watering. Also keep an eye on the humidity, especially during the winter.
How do I make spear ferns grow bushy?
To make a fern plant grow denser, you can stimulate it by cutting away older shoots and giving the plant even access to light and water. A large fern also needs more space, so don't choose a pot that is too small.
Can you take cuttings or propagate spear fern?
Spear fern spreads via small shoots from the base. When replanting, you can carefully divide the plant to get multiple plants. Look for new small leaves or rooted side shoots at the edge of the pot.
Types of bracken, are there different varieties?
There are several fern varieties, but Nephrolepis exaltata 'Duffy' is one of the most popular. It has slightly smaller, denser leaves and is particularly suitable as an indoor fern in smaller spaces.
Whether you're looking for a classic old-fashioned houseplant or just want a green plant to drape over your shelf, spear ferns are a great choice. You can see our selection of ferns below. Buy spear ferns online and start your green journey!
