Find Your Can you tell me the name of a fern that similar to the Boston fern but
does not shed like the Boston does? Thank you, Anne
Reply
Ferns are touchy subjects at best in any indoor-growing situation; They prefer a humid atmosphere which is much more damp than most household interiors, particularly during our central-heated winters.
Some of the cultivars of the Boston Fern which have more finely-divided fronds, such as “Fluffy Ruffles”, seem to perform better indoors than the species.
Another choice might be the Dallas Fern, which is smaller than the Boston Fern but is similar in form. It has more leathery leaves which are less prone to drying out and shedding.
Meanwhile, ferns growing indoors will benefit from frequent (daily) misting with water. Place them in a cool, bright location out of direct sun. Keep them away from drafts and heating ducts or air vents; A summer outdoors in a shady spot helps a fern which has suffered through a dry winter indoors to recover and produce new growth.
If you are looking for a 8 inch to 10inch Boston Fern for Hanging Basket. I would recomend a variety called Princess. This fern is perfect for an eight inch pot or a small 10 inch. It has dark fronds that are slightly crinkled. This variety does not shed. It is still a full basket but grower friendly because it requires less space than the traditional Boston Fern. I would stay away from Dallas it is primarialy a 6 inch freestanding or a small 8 inch, this variety forms almost a ball shape.
Attached Image: princess.jpg
C Kuerth,
Since the time of the original post, we have tested and tried other ferns in our growing operation. We have tried Massaai, Princess and True Boston. Princess probably sheds the least and makes a beautiful full fern but the fronds are a bit short and sometimes our customers want the longer fronds. We have also tried Nephrolepis obliterata sometimes called Australian Sword Fern, Kimberly Queen or Western Queen. These do well in posts and baskets and don’t seem to shed much. Their only draw back in a basket is that they are a little more upright. Anytime you all develop a new fern please let us know. We are always interested in improved or revisited varieties that will appeal to our members.