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hanging fern plant outdoor Shop 'Boston Fern Plants – Nephrolepis exaltata' Care and Info

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hanging fern plant outdoor Shop 'Boston Fern Plants – Nephrolepis exaltata' Care and InfoThe Boston fern plant, known as Nephrolepis exaltata, are known for their feathery, arching fronds and lush green foliage, and are among the most popular indoor and outdoor ferns. This popular house plant has been a household favorite since the Victorian era, when it was frequently used to add elegance to indoor spaces. With its gracefully arching fronds that spill over the edges of pots or hanging baskets, the Boston fern lends a soft, natural beauty

The Boston fern plant, known as Nephrolepis exaltata, are known for their feathery, arching fronds and lush green foliage, and are among the most popular indoor and outdoor ferns.

This popular house plant has been a household favorite since the Victorian era, when it was frequently used to add elegance to indoor spaces. With its gracefully arching fronds that spill over the edges of pots or hanging baskets, the Boston fern lends a soft, natural beauty to any room or shaded garden area.  

Native to Central and South America, the Nephrolepis exaltata plant gets its common name ‘Boston fern’ because of its popularity in Boston during the 19th century, this wild Boston fern also goes by names like "Sword Fern" and "Ladder Fern," which refer to the distinctive, sword-shaped fronds and the laddered arrangement of its leaflets. While the origin of the "Boston" moniker isn’t entirely clear, some say it began after a grower in Boston helped popularize the plant. The fern’s botanical name, Nephrolepis exaltata, describes its species and genus, with “exaltata” meaning “lofty” or “elevated,” a nod to the upright nature of its fronds before they cascade downward in a beautiful display.

The Boston fern’s defining feature is its feathery or lacy fronds that arch gracefully from a central base, with each frond covered in numerous tiny, darker green leaflets arranged in a ladder-like pattern.

These fronds can grow up to 3 feet long, creating an eye-catching, cascading effect that makes the fern ideal for hanging baskets or decorative containers.

The plant grows in a clumping form, with new fronds sprouting from a central rhizome, gradually expanding its coverage area over time.

Boston ferns do not produce flowers or seeds.Instead, they reproduce through tiny spores that develop on the undersides of mature fronds.

These spores, which look like small brown dots or lines, are released into the air when conditions are right, potentially germinating to create new ferns. While this natural reproduction process is less commonly observed in indoor settings, it’s fascinating to note how Boston fern propagates and adapt to their surroundings in the wild. This spore-based reproduction is also one of the reasons ferns have been able to thrive for millions of years, outlasting many other plant species. 

The ability of Boston fern plants to enhance indoor air quality is one of their many wonderful advantages. NASA research has shown that ferns are among the best plants for filtering out common indoor air pollutants, including formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. This makes them not only an attractive addition to homes but also a healthy one. Additionally, it releases moisture into the air through a process called transpiration, which can help increase humidity levels in dry indoor spaces. This can be particularly beneficial in climates or rooms where air conditioning or heating dries out the air, making the fern an excellent choice for creating a more comfortable environment. 

When and How to Water Your Boston Fern Plants 

Boston ferns are fairly drought-tolerant plants, but their lush, vibrant fronds thrive best with consistent moisture. While they can handle brief dry spells, prolonged periods without water will cause the fronds to wilt and the tips to turn brown. 

If grown in hanging baskets or pots, it’s especially important to monitor soil moisture regularly, as the soil in containers dries out faster than in-ground settings. Indoor Boston ferns benefit from a humid environment, as they naturally grow in shaded, moist forests, so regular watering and misting help keep them looking their best. 

In the spring and fall, during the growing season, they are more active and require consistent watering. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Watering every 2-3 days is often ideal, depending on temperature, humidity, and container size. If you feel that the top inch of soil is dry, it's time to water. Thoroughly water until you see excess draining out, which helps flush out salts and mineral buildup from the soil. High humidity also helps maintain moisture; placing the fern on a humidity tray or misting it daily is beneficial. 

During late fall and winter, in the dormant season, Boston fern plants require less frequent watering since their growth slows down. Water your fern plant in winter only when the top inch or so of soil feels dry, which may be every 1-2 weeks. Avoid overwatering, as the plant is less active and more prone to root rot. Reduce misting, as cooler indoor conditions can lead to fungal issues. While humidity remains important, a more relaxed watering routine during dormancy will help the fern rest and prepare for the next growing season. 

Light Requirements – Where to Place Your Boston Fern Plant 

For indoor growing Boston ferns, an east- or north-facing window is ideal, as these locations offer morning or filtered light without the harshness of the midday sun. If the only available spot is near a south- or west-facing window, try placing this indoor plant a few feet away from the glass or using sheer curtains to diffuse the light. In lower light levels, they may grow more slowly, but artificial grow lights can supplement natural light, especially in winter. 

These ferns prefer relatively stable lighting without abrupt changes, so keeping them in a well-lit area with steady, indirect sunlight will promote healthy growth. A lack of light may cause the fronds to thin out or the plant to develop a yellowish hue, signaling that it needs a brighter environment.

Turning the fern every few weeks helps ensure even growth, as all sides of the plant get exposure to light. Additionally, indirect light helps retain humidity around the plant, which is essential for indoor ferns, as they are sensitive to dry indoor air.

When you grow Boston fern outdoors, it prefers a shaded or partially shaded location. It naturally thrives in environments where it can protect from intense sunlight by the forest canopy, so replicating this in outdoor spaces is ideal. Dappled shade from trees or filtered light under a porch or pergola provides the best outdoor conditions. While Boston fern can tolerate some early morning or late afternoon sun, direct midday sun can quickly dry out their fronds, especially in hot climates. Garden spots that offer indirect light help outdoor ferns maintain lush growth and vibrant color. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

When it comes to soil for your Boston fern, it's essential to provide them with a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture. A good mix for fern plants includes peat moss, perlite, and pine bark to ensure proper drainage while holding enough moisture for the plant. This type of soil mimics the fern's natural habitat and helps prevent root rot, a common issue with overwatering. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized potting mix, opens in a new tab that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your fern plants to thrive. 

For fertilizing Boston fern, it's best to use a balanced liquid NPK fertilizer diluted to half strength. During the growing season in spring, you can fertilize your Boston fern once a year. In contrast, do not fertilize your plant during fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing. Over-fertilizing can harm the fern, so it's crucial to follow the recommended dosage and frequency to provide the necessary nutrients without overwhelming the plant.

Hardiness Zones & More 

When growing indoors, the potted Boston fern plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F. These ferns thrive in environments with moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%. To increase humidity for indoor Boston fern, you can mist the plant regularly or use a humidifier near the plant to create a more suitable environment. 

For outdoor Boston ferns, they are typically hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. These ferns prefer temperatures above 60°F and thrive in shaded or partially shaded areas with high humidity levels. If you live in a region with colder temperatures, it's best to bring your plants inside during the winter months to protect them from frost damage. 

In the wild, it’s often found growing in the understory of forests where it benefits from natural shade and humidity. Boston fern thrives beautifully in a bed of moist sphagnum moss, which helps retain the consistent humidity and moisture it craves for its lush, delicate fronds. The plant’s adaptation to these conditions makes it ideal for indoor spaces where light levels are lower.  

Wildlife: Boston Fern Attract the Following Friendly Pollinators 

Boston ferns are not known for attracting pollinators as they reproduce through spores rather than flowers that would typically attract pollinators like bees or butterflies. These ferns rely on spores for reproduction, which are produced on the underside of their fronds and are dispersed by the wind to propagate new plants.

Toxicity: According to the ASPCA, the Nephrolepis exaltata are considered non-toxic to pets and humans. This means that if your curious pets, such as cats or dogs, happen to nibble on the fronds of a Boston fern, it is unlikely to cause serious harm or toxicity.  

How to Propagate Your Boston Fern Plants

The Boston ferns can be propagated through division or spores. With a sharp knife, divide the root ball of an established plant into smaller sections, each with roots and fronds that can then be replanted to grow into new ferns. Spore propagation is another method where you can collect spores from mature fronds, sow them on a suitable growing medium, and provide the right conditions for them to germinate and grow into new plants. Both division and spore propagation are effective ways to expand your Boston fern collection or share plants with friends and family.

Key Takeaways 

  1. While Boston ferns prefer consistently moist soil, they are fairly drought-tolerant and can survive short dry spells, making them adaptable for various indoor and outdoor environments.
  2. Boston ferns are known to purify indoor air by filtering out toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene, and they also help increase humidity through transpiration, improving air quality in dry spaces.
  3. This fern thrives in bright, indirect light, making it well-suited for east- or north-facing windows indoors or shaded outdoor spots that replicate its native forest floor habitat.
  4. Boston ferns require minimal pruning and care, growing best with regular watering, occasional misting, and moderate humidity, which makes them an accessible choice for beginners.
  5. Instead of flowers and seeds, Boston ferns reproduce through spores located on the undersides of mature fronds, a unique characteristic among many popular houseplants.

The Bottom Line

Overall, the Boston ferns (Nephrolepis exaltata) are low-maintenance perennial plants for both plant enthusiasts and new gardeners, known for their lush, arching fronds and natural elegance. Ideal for adding a vibrant touch of greenery indoors or enhancing shaded areas outdoors, these ferns are versatile, house plants that suit a range of environments. With moderate drought tolerance and air-purifying qualities, they offer more than just beauty, improving indoor air quality and adding moisture to the air. Boston ferns thrive in indirect light and appreciate consistent moisture and humidity, though they can adapt to slightly drier conditions with regular care. Their unique spore-based reproduction adds to their charm, showcasing a fascinating aspect of plant biology. With minimal pruning and straightforward needs, Boston ferns bring classic appeal and numerous benefits to any space, making them an excellent choice for buyers looking to invest in a durable, easy-care plant. Order your very own Boston fern for sale today! 

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Melissa Eaton
Battle Creek, US
★★★★★ 5
Love this watch!
Beautiful watch, instantly one of my favorites and I own some that are worth many times what this one cost!
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Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2025
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Professor T.
Omaha, US
★★★★★ 5
Excellent watch!
Rapid delivery and processing (domestic US). It's a Hamilton...I was surprised by the weight of this timepiece compared to my Seiko GMT. I love the 24-hour on the dial when dealing with military time.
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Reviewed in the United States on March 8, 2024
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Amazon Customer
Los Angeles, US
★★★★★ 5
Such a beautiful watch!!!
What can I say. It's a Hamilton!
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Reviewed in the United States on January 4, 2024
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GL
Omaha, US
★★★★★ 1
Great looking color scheme, but the same flaws as the other color variants of this model.
This review is for the 43mm white dial variant with blue ceramic bezel. Everything is built exactly the same as the black and blue variants other than the colors. I’ve already reviewed the black variant separately but updated the review for this white dial version. Like probably 99% of watch enthusiasts, most of my watches have black or blue dials. Those are the most common/popular dial colors for a reason, they look good and they’re the most versatile. But because I already have so many of those, I find myself always on the lookout for a good looking white dial to add to the collection for a little variety. And even more than just a white dial, I really love a red, white, and blue color scheme. I’m a patriot, proud to have served, and to rep our country’s colors anytime I can. It makes it even better that this watch is made by Hamilton, a brand with a rich US military history that has retained its American name, even if it’s no longer an American company and is now Swiss made and headquartered. But out of all the different watches I’ve bought over the years, Hamilton has been the most frustrating. While it has made great strides in the last few years improving a lot of the things watch enthusiasts care about, such as higher end materials, improved designs, much better lume - there seems to always be at least one cheaply made part that disappoints. Pros: Great looking watch overall, it’s already hard enough to find a good looking white dial watch, let alone one with a red, white, and blue color scheme. 300m water resist (screw down caseback and crown). Accurate and reliable automatic movement. 80 hr power reserve with antimagnetic Nivachron hairspring. Thin for such a large and heavy watch with 300m water resist. Very good lume. Bracelet uses pins and collars for sizing, which is much more durable than cotter pins or screws. I never worry about a pin and collar system coming loose on a bracelet. A lot of bracelets on watches in this price tier, and some even higher (I’m talking to you, Mido and Longines!!!) are held together with cheap cotter/split pins. Cons: No date. The only people who prefer no date are watch collectors, and this is not a collector’s watch. For people who actually wear their watches daily, having the date or day/date is always preferable. Bracelet is old fashioned and needs to be modernized. No quick release spring bars, and no on the fly adjusting clasp. Pins and collars can be a little harder for some people to size, although I have no problems sizing and actually prefer them. Powermatic 80 based movement can be more difficult for traditional watchmakers to service/regulate. On the heavier side, but I’m used to even heavier watches, so it doesn’t bother me. EXTREMELY CHEAPLY MADE LITTLE LUME PIP ON THE BEZEL THAT BREAKS OFF EASILY!!! My measurements: Weight, head only: 99g. Weight, full bracelet: 116g. Weight total: 215g. 43.8mm case diameter. 47.1mm including crown. 43.0mm at bezel. 33mm approximate dial diameter without bezel. 22.0mm lug width. Bracelet tapers to 20mm at the clasp. 52.0mm lug to lug. 12.8mm thick. 7.5mm diameter crown. My wrist is 7.375” and 60mm across for reference in the pics. I’ve had the watch for a few years now. The look/styling of the watch is great. It has some classic Hamilton military looks due to the 24 hour Arabic numerals, the kind of matte, textured white dial (more on that in a bit), and mostly brushed finishing on the case and bracelet, while retaining some polished bits for styling versatility. But this white version is definitely not as versatile as the black one. On the black one, the only pop of color is on the red tipped seconds hand. That one (depending on the strap you put on it) would look equally at home for military use on a rubber or nato, a T-shirt and jeans with any strap or bracelet, and even with a suit when paired with a dressier strap. This one has that same red tip on the seconds hand, but with its white dial, bright blue bezel, along with the polished, bright blue indices and handset - it looks much less serious. I think it would look fine with a T-shirt and jeans and up to business casual, but not much otherwise. Regarding the dial, it’s much more interesting in person than you can tell in the pics. Nicely polished/finished blue indices and handset that turn an almost electric blue when hit by the light, but it’s the texture of the dial that I really like. I have no idea what it’s made of. The texture doesn’t look like it’s just from some kind of paint, it has a very subtle metallic sheen, almost like a very faint glitter. Maybe the best way to describe it would be if you were to take a shiny white metal and then sand it down to give it a matte finish, but you could still see hints of a glittery shine - that’s what it looks like. Visibility is great too. In particular, I find white dial watches that use dark outlines for the hands and indices are the most clearly visible at a glance. Also, dive watches (or any watch with an outer rotating bezel) need to be larger like this one because those bezels take up a lot of the diameter. The lume is much stronger and longer lasting than on previous iterations. This one uses blue lume instead of the green on the black version, and seems to be almost as strong and long lasting, although the green always looks brighter to me in the dark. This lume is still visible on camera even at the two hour mark (and the camera has a much harder time picking up dim light than our eyes can when adjusted to the dark), which means it’ll be easily visible in the dark all night. The antireflective (AR) coating is improved from older models and helps reduce some glare, but there are some angles you’ll find it difficult to see the time. Out of those two, the lume is definitely more important in everyday life. A good AR coating is a bonus, but less of a priority, especially at this price tier. The movement is also great, again especially at this tier. The Powermatic 80 movement is always reliable. 80 hr power reserve, laser regulated at the factory. I have 3 of them in various watches, all of them run easily within the COSC spec of -4 to +6 seconds per day. For this one in particular when fully wound, on the timegrapher it settled down at +2 seconds per day dial up, then +6 spd crown left (12 o’clock down). Its lifetime average has been +1.3 spd over 120 non consecutive days (a week or two at a time) that I actively tracked when on winder or on wrist around the house. The bracelet is a weak point. No on the fly adjust capability and no quick release spring bars. I never even wore the watch on the factory bracelet because of all that, I swapped it out immediately. I can’t wear a watch bracelet that doesn’t have the on the fly adjust capability anymore. Once you’ve had it on other watches, you can’t go back. The glossy ceramic bezel looks good and will be very durable and scratch resistant compared to aluminum. The gloss goes well with the polished bits on the dial, knurling, bezel, and crown. It has 60 minute clicks (which I prefer, makes it much easier to use the bezel even for simple things like counting instead of timing) with a solid feeling, notchy action. It was extremely difficult to move the bezel when I first got the watch because it was very stiff, but also because it has shallow knurling, and it’s smooth and polished, so it lacks grip. It’s extra hard to turn when hands are slippery from water, and almost impossible when from soap or oil. The bezel action did eventually loosen up over time (in the beginning I used to just sit there and constantly rotate the bezel to loosen it up while watching tv), and now it’s much easier to turn. But the bezel and crown knurling could definitely be improved for better grip. But the worst part, and the reason why I’m so dissatisfied with this watch - the lume pip is a little unprotected bead that seems to be just glued into the bezel. On the black version, very early on, after only a few times of wearing the watch - that lume pip broke off, and I didn’t notice until later because I hadn’t banged the watch against anything that would’ve made me check to make sure it wasn’t damaged. I never even noticed before whether lume pips were protected until my experience with that watch. Now I always make sure they’re shielded before I buy. I hate having a watch knowing a piece is missing, even if I’m the only one who knows. I bought this white version right after the black one, but before the lume pip on the black one broke off - so I’ve never worn the white version outside the house because I want to keep it intact. I should just get over it and enjoy the watch for what it is, and let the lume pip break off on this one too. It is such a waste not to wear such a good looking watch. It’s something I’ve always noticed about Hamilton watches - there always seems to be at least one part that’s made cheaply and not as durable as the rest of the watch. There’s a very simple way to fix that problem - either make it with a fully protected lume pip, or get rid of the lume pip altogether and make the bezel bidirectional, since without the lume pip it wouldn’t meet diver requirements anymore anyway. That would change the watch from a diver to more of a pilot watch, but let’s face it - 99.99% of people aren’t diving with these, we buy divers for their water resistance/durability but don’t need a unidirectional bezel for diving purposes. Bidirectional is much more functional for timing things in everyday life. And the best type of bezel would be a bidirectional, 60 click, 12 hour bezel with full minute markings. Then you could not only use it for timing, but also to track a second time zone. That would be a total homerun. In addition to that, add better knurling on the bezel and crown for better grip, quick release spring bars for the bracelet along with an on the fly adjusting clasp, at least a date (or better yet a day/date), then it would be a 5/5. Those should not be expensive additions either, they’re all very simple and relatively cheap modifications. All of that would take this watch to its highest potential in its price tier. Since product quality is always relative to its price, if the lume pip issue were fixed, without any other changes, it would be a 4 - good, not yet great. But because this has such a cheaply made piece that breaks off so easily, it gets dropped to a 1. That’s inexcusable on anything in the $1k+ tier. A lot of watches at even the sub $500 tier have shielded lume pips so that they won’t break off.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2025
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Al
Chelsea, US
★★★★★ 5
Great quality shirt.
Size: XX-Large, Color: Butter
Nice quality and fits great, very comfortable.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 1, 2026

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