Plant Problem Lab
All plants

Plant profile

Boston Fern problems and care notes

Boston fern fronds can brown after the root ball dries hard or beside hot airflow. A firm crown and green fiddleheads show what can regrow after damage.

Check this plant
Boston Fern houseplant leaves

Watering note

Keep evenly moist in a draining pot; avoid full dry-downs.

Light note

Bright filtered light or gentle morning light.

Drainage

medium

Root rot risk

medium

Common problems

Pests to watch for

spider mitesscale

What to check on this plant

Check pot weight before fronds crisp at the edges.

Move away from heat vents and dry windowsills.

Look inside the dense fronds for mites if browning is patchy.

Useful guides

Read next for Boston Fern