Intense Sunlight Sword fern prefers partial to full shade. Although it sometimes tolerates full sunlight, when growing it in such a location you must pay especial attention to its watering needs, as too little water can put it at risk or burning or scorching and turning brown.

Ferns do not flower but reproduce sexually from spores. There are two distinct stages of the fern life cycle. Mature plants produce spores on the underside of the leaves. When these germinate they grow into small heart-shaped plants known as prothalli.

Ferns reproduce by spores rather than by seeds. Some plants that are called ferns, such as asparagus ferns, reproduce by seeds and are not true ferns. There are about 12,000 different species, or types, of fern throughout the world.

Fertilization. Ferns are relatively light feeders compared to many other foliage plants. They prefer a balanced fertilizer, such as 20-10-20 or 20-20-20, with micronutrients applied at approximately 200 ppm nitrogen.

Dig up your fern and add organic material or compost to the hole if you have clay soil that that doesn’t drain well. Replace the fern, water it well and give it a few weeks to bounce back. Transplant the fern if it currently grows in direct sunlight and has browned leaflets or fronds.

Button ferns thrive on humidity, and dry air can make the leaves wilt quickly. Instead, try misting the leaves with water a couple of times a day while the leaves look droopy, then once a day for the duration of the cold season.

The button fern prefers bright indirect light, especially during the cold weather and subdued light during the summer season. They have a high tolerance to the colder climate but dislike frost. The ideal room temperature for it is between 65° – 75° degrees Fahrenheit (18° – 24° C).

It takes six months to get a plant large enough to transplant outside. The other way is to dig up a large, mature fern in spring and divide it into smaller sections. Dividing the plant gives nearly instant results with plants that will grow quickly.

You can use a sharp knife to cut through the root ball into as many sections as you’d like. Once you get into a good routine, the button fern makes a wonderful houseplant, especially if you have not had success with other ferns.

Lemon button fern. With a plethora of small, button-like leaves, this plant flourishes in low light and loves water. It has a subtle lemon scent when actively growing, but is safe if your dog or cat sneaks a nibble.

Button Ferns are non-toxic to dogs and cats.