Australian Sword Fern
Growing An Australian Sword Fern Indoors
Native to Australia and finally introduced to the United States around 20 years ago, the Australian Sword fern is as useful as it is beautiful. Aside from their obvious elegance, these plants have air-cleansing qualities, making them a popular choice for home and office.
Many people buy an Australian Sword fern to adorn porches and decks during the warmer months of spring, summer and early fall. They grow fabulously in humid locations that offer plenty of indirect sunlight however, when temperatures drop and there are frost threats, the plants need to be transferred indoors in order to survive.
When ferns are brought inside for the winter after being used to enjoying the outdoors, you should know that sometimes they will not continue growing and may even shed their leaves. However, others will do quite well with proper care and an idea location.
Indoor Location
Many people associate ferns with shady, dark areas but the Australian Sword fern loves the sun and should be placed close to a window that receives ample indirect sunshine. Usually a west-facing or bright east window are chosen locations. They are able to endure darker areas but they cannot be expected to flourish there.
Ideally, the Australian Sword fern prefers a daytime temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Also, keep in mind that the room temperature gets warmer toward the ceiling so if your fern is hanging or placed on a high shelf you may want to check the temperature and move the plant if needed.
Watering And Feeding
During the growing season of the warmer months, provide your Australian Sword fern with enough water, to keep the soil moist but not soaked. In the hottest months you do not want to let the soil dry out before you water it again or else the foliage will most often lose its bright healthy glow.
However in the winter months you can let the soil get a little bit drier. You will generally notice a bit of new growth sprouting on the plant when winter is ending which gives you your cue to increase watering.
It is a good idea at this time and through summer into fall, to offer a nitrogen-rich household plant food monthly until fall and dilute this to about half strength. Never feed your Australian Sword fern in the winter months.
Transplanting
You really never need to transplant your Australian Sword fern unless you just desire a larger plant. You can also divide the plant by its roots into several smaller plants if you choose. Keep in mind that the bigger the container, the larger the plant will grow as their roots will grow to container capacity.
To create a suitable potting mixture you should combine two parts of sterile potting soil, two parts of peat moss and one part of perlite with a small amount of charcoal granules. Transfer the fern to the new pot and care for it as usual. These ferns really do not have any transplanting issues so there are not any precautions you need to watch out for.
Providing Humidity
A bit of humidity is most appreciated by the Australian Sword fern. An average home will not provide anywhere near the required humidity, especially in the winter when the heat is running. Misting can be helpful however, once the water evaporates, the plant is lacking again.
During hot months, your fern can be placed on some type of saucer or shallow dish that is filled with water and a few stones so as the water slowly evaporates, there is humidity provided to the plant naturally.
In harsh winter months of course doing the same thing will be helpful but a humidifier is definitely recommended. You may want to also consider purchasing a hygrometer so that you can measure indoor humidity. They are available at garden supply stores, nurseries and other shops that sell thermostats.