If you are a plant lover and have recently brought home a Hurricane Fern, you might be wondering how to take care of it. With its unique fronds and easy-to-care-for nature, the Hurricane Fern is a popular choice for indoor and outdoor decoration. However, like any other plant, it requires proper care and attention to thrive. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to take care of your Hurricane Fern.

What is a Hurricane Fern?

The Hurricane Fern, also known as the Boston Fern, is a popular houseplant that belongs to the Nephrolepis genus. It is native to tropical regions of the Americas and is characterized by its long, arching fronds that can grow up to 3 feet in length. The fronds are usually bright green and have a delicate, lacy appearance, making the Hurricane Fern an attractive addition to any indoor or outdoor space.

Some other names that are commonly used to refer to Hurricane Fern are:

Other common names for Hurricane Fern include 

hurricane fern is the same as a bird’s nest fern?

No, the Hurricane Fern is not the same as a Bird’s Nest Fern. While they are both ferns, they belong to different species and have distinct differences in appearance. The Hurricane Fern (Polypodium punctatum) has long, slender fronds with small, round leaflets arranged in an alternating pattern along the stem.

The fronds typically grow to be about 1-2 feet long, and the plant itself can reach up to 3 feet in height. On the other hand, the Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus) has wider, more pronounced fronds that are arranged in a circular, nest-like pattern. The fronds can grow to be several feet long, and the plant typically grows to be around 2-3 feet in diameter.

Is Hurricane Fern rare?

The Hurricane Fern is not considered a rare plant, as it is widely available in nurseries and garden centers. It is a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts due to its attractive foliage and easy care requirements. However, it may not be as commonly found in some regions or areas with limited access to plant nurseries.

hurricane fern toxic to cats

Hurricane Fern is considered toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for pet owners who also enjoy indoor plants. However, as with any plant, it is still important to monitor your pets and discourage them from chewing on or ingesting the foliage, as excessive consumption can still lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or other health issues. You can also read How Harmful is Pothos for Pets?

Hurricane Fern Care Guide!

Lighting Requirements

One of the most important factors to consider when caring for your Hurricane Fern is lighting. These plants require bright, indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause them to turn brown or yellow.

As someone who’s constantly on the lookout for suitable houseplants to brighten up the darker corners of my home, I understand the appeal of low-light plants like the Hurricane Fern. However, it’s important to note that plants kept in low light conditions tend to grow at a slower pace. Too little light can cause the fronds to become pale and weak. To ensure that your Hurricane Fern stays healthy, be sure to monitor it closely and check for signs of stress or wilting.

Ideally, your Hurricane Fern should be placed in a location that receives bright, filtered light for at least 4-6 hours a day or simply you can use grow light for it.

Also, Learn How to Care for Your Indoor Ferns and what not to do with These Tips

Watering

Compared to low-maintenance plants like the Snake Plant, the Hurricane Fern requires a bit more attention when it comes to watering. While it’s important to keep the soil evenly moist, you should avoid overwatering the plant and leaving the soil overly saturated. Striking a balance between adequate moisture and proper drainage is key to keeping your Hurricane Fern healthy and thriving.

Proper watering is crucial for the health of your Hurricane Fern. These plants prefer moist soil, but they don’t like to sit in water. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems, so it’s important to water your plant carefully. 

The frequency of watering will depend on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the size of your plant. In general, you should water your Hurricane Fern when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water thoroughly, and make sure that any excess water drains away.

Should I mist my hurricane fern?

Misting can be beneficial for Hurricane Fern, as it helps to increase humidity levels around the plant. This is especially important if you live in a dry climate or if the air in your home tends to be dry. However, it’s important to note that misting alone may not provide enough moisture for the plant, and it should still be watered regularly as needed. Over-misting can also lead to problems such as fungal growth or root rot, so it’s important to avoid saturating the foliage or soil excessively. A good rule of thumb is to mist your Hurricane Fern once or twice a week, or as needed to maintain adequate humidity levels.

Why is my hurricane fern turning brown?

If your Hurricane Fern is turning brown, it could be a sign of several different issues. Here are a few possible causes:

1. Overwatering: If the soil is consistently too wet or the pot does not have proper drainage, the roots of the plant may start to rot, which can lead to brown or yellowing leaves.
2. Underwatering: On the other hand, if the plant is not receiving enough water, the leaves may start to dry out and turn brown.
3. Low humidity: Hurricane Ferns thrive in high-humidity environments. If the air around the plant is too dry, the fronds may start to turn brown or crisp around the edges.
4. Pest infestations: Mites or other pests can cause discoloration or browning of the leaves.

To determine the exact cause of your Hurricane Fern’s brown leaves, it’s important to closely examine the plant and its environment. Adjusting watering habits, increasing humidity levels, and addressing pest infestations can all help to improve the plant’s overall health and appearance.

Soil Requirements

The right soil is important for the growth and health of your Hurricane Fern.

Hurricane Ferns have specific soil requirements to ensure optimal growth and health. Here are some key considerations when it comes to soil:

1. Well-draining: Hurricane Ferns prefer soil that is well-draining, meaning that excess water can drain away easily. This helps to prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged and rotting.
2. Moisture retention: At the same time, the soil should be able to retain some moisture to keep the plant hydrated. A soil mix that contains peat moss or coco coir can help to retain moisture while also promoting drainage.
3. Nutrient-rich: Hurricane Ferns benefit from a nutrient-rich soil mix. Adding compost, worm castings, or other organic fertilizers to the soil can help to provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to thrive.
4. Slightly acidic: Hurricane Ferns prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. You can test the pH level of your soil with a soil testing kit, which can be purchased at most garden centers.

Overall, it’s important to choose a high-quality potting mix that meets these soil requirements to ensure that your Hurricane Fern has the best possible growing conditions. Regularly checking the soil moisture levels and providing appropriate fertilization can help to ensure the plant’s continued health and vitality.

Temperature and Humidity

Hurricane Ferns prefer a warm, humid environment. They thrive in temperatures between 60 and 75°F, and they prefer humidity levels of at least 50%. In dry indoor environments, you can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near your plant or by using a humidifier. You can also mist the leaves with water once a week to provide additional moisture.

How big will a hurricane fern get?

The size of a Hurricane Fern can vary depending on a number of factors, including the growing conditions and the age of the plant. Typically, a mature Hurricane Fern will grow to be around 2 to 3 feet tall and wide. However, with proper care and maintenance, some plants may grow even larger. It’s important to keep in mind that indoor plants tend to grow more slowly than those grown outdoors, so it may take several years for a Hurricane Fern to reach its full size.

Fertilization

Fertilization is important to provide your Hurricane Fern with the necessary nutrients for growth and health. You can use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Be sure to dilute the fertilizer to half-strength before applying it to your plant. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to fertilizer burn and other problems.

Pruning

Pruning can help keep your Hurricane Fern healthy and attractive. You should remove any dead or yellowing fronds as soon as possible, as they can harbor pests and diseases. You can also prune back any fronds that are becoming too long or straggly to keep your plant looking neat and well-groomed. Use a pair of sharp, clean pruning shears to make clean cuts, and avoid cutting too close to the soil or removing too many fronds at once.

Pests and Diseases

Hurricane Ferns are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can still be affected by a few common problems. Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects are the most common pests that can infest your plant.

To prevent these pests, make sure to keep your plant clean and well-hydrated, and inspect it regularly for signs of infestation. If you notice any pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat your plant.

As for diseases, root rot and fungal infections are the most common problems that can affect your Hurricane Fern. These issues are often caused by overwatering, so make sure to water your plant carefully and avoid letting it sit in the water. If you notice any signs of disease, such as wilting, yellowing, or brown spots on the leaves, you should remove the affected leaves and treat your plant with a fungicide.

Repotting

Repotting your Hurricane Fern can help it grow and thrive, but it’s important to do it at the right time. These plants prefer to be slightly root-bound, so you don’t need to repot them very often. In general, you should repot your Hurricane Fern every 2-3 years, or when you notice that it has outgrown its current container.

When repotting, choose a container that is one size larger than the current one, and use fresh potting soil. Be sure to water your plant well after repotting to help it settle into its new home.

Propagation

If you want to propagate your Hurricane Fern, you have a few options. The easiest way to propagate these plants is through division. Simply divide your plant into smaller sections, making sure that each section has roots and at least one frond. You can then plant each section in its own container with fresh potting soil and a water well.

You can also propagate Hurricane Ferns through spores, although this method is more challenging. To do this, you will need to collect spores from the underside of mature fronds and plant them in a container with moist, sterile potting soil.

Keep the container covered with plastic to maintain high humidity, and place it in a warm, bright location. The spores should germinate within a few weeks, and you can then transplant the young plants into their own containers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I water my Hurricane Fern?

You should water your Hurricane Fern when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Can I keep my Hurricane Fern outside?

Yes, Hurricane Ferns can be grown both indoors and outdoors, as long as they are protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

How do I increase humidity for my Hurricane Fern?

You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near your plant or by using a humidifier. You can also mist the leaves with water once a week to provide additional moisture.

Can I fertilize my Hurricane Fern with regular houseplant fertilizer?

Yes, you can use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

What should I do if I notice pests or diseases on my Hurricane Fern?

If you notice any pests or diseases, you should remove the affected leaves and treat your plant with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.