Can Ferns Grow in Water? A Complete Guide to Hydroponically Growing Gorgeous Ferns
Ferns are beautiful, lush plants that can make any room feel more open and natural. They are popular houseplants because of their delicately arched fronds and tropical look. But did you know that ferns can also grow so well in water?
Growing ferns in water is a simple, low-maintenance way to enjoy these plants. The key is to pick the right types of ferns and give them some basic care.
You’ll learn everything you need to know about growing healthy ferns in water indoors in this complete guide.
Can All Ferns Grow in Water?
While most ferns grow best potted in soil, several varieties are well-suited to hydroponic water culture. Their natural affinity for moisture makes cultivating them in water a breeze.
Some top choices for growing ferns in water include
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Boston Fern – Known for long, graceful fronds. Does well partially submerged.
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Java Fern – Often used in aquariums. Roots easily in water.
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Asian Water Fern – As the name suggests, this one thrives with aquatic roots.
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Bird’s Nest Fern – Can grow as an epiphyte. Perfect for dish gardens.
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Maidenhair Fern – Delicate foliage. Submerge just the roots.
Avoid sensitive varieties like ostrich and cinnamon ferns. Focus on types adapted to enjoy wet feet.
How to Grow Ferns in Water
Growing ferns hydroponically is simple with a few key steps:
- Select Healthy Specimens
Start with vigorous ferns, free of disease and pests. Check for plenty of green fronds and firm, white roots.
- Trim Roots
Carefully trim away any dead or damaged roots with clean shears. This encourages new growth.
- Choose a Container
Clear glass vases let you monitor water roots. Fill with room temperature water.
- Submerge Roots
Place ferns in water so just the roots are fully submerged, not the rhizomes or fronds.
- Find a Bright Spot
Situate in bright, indirect light. Avoid hot direct sun which can scorch delicate leaves.
- Change Water Weekly
Replace water weekly to prevent bacterial buildup. Use filtered or distilled water for best results.
Ongoing Care for Water-Grown Ferns
Caring for ferns in water culture contains a few key elements for success:
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Indirect Light – Bright filtered sun keeps ferns thriving. Rotate plants to prevent one-sided growth.
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Correct Temperatures – Ideal temps are 60-80°F. Keep away from hot and cold drafts.
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Fresh Water – Change water weekly or whenever cloudy. Use room temperature filtered water.
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Humidity – Mist fronds daily or place on a pebble tray for needed humidity.
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Diluted Fertilizer – Apply aquatic houseplant fertilizer monthly to nourish roots.
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Pruning – Trim off any yellow or brown fronds to maintain health.
Your water-grown ferns will grow well for years to come if you follow these easy steps. You can enjoy their lush beauty even if there is no soil around.
Troubleshooting Common Fern Water Culture Issues
While relatively problem-free, a few potential issues can crop up when growing ferns in water. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
Problem – Slow growth
Solution – Increase light exposure, change water more frequently
Problem – Leggy growth
Solution – Provide more light to encourage fuller fronds
Problem – Brown leaf tips
Solution – Increase humidity through misting and pebble trays
Problem – Root rot
Solution – Change water more often and trim affected roots
Problem – Yellowing fronds
Solution – Apply diluted liquid fertilizer to nourish plants
Problem – Algae growth
Solution – Use filtered water and scrub containers to remove algae
With some minor adjustments, your water-grown ferns will continue thriving and rewarding you with their graceful beauty.
Transitioning Water Ferns Back to Soil
What if you want to shift your water-cultivated ferns back to potting mix? This process takes some care to avoid transplant shock:
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Choose a container with drainage holes, using fresh potting mix for ferns.
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Gently loosen the roots and rinse to remove any water residue.
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Place the root ball in the container, filling in around with mix.
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Water thoroughly until it runs from the drainage holes.
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Situate in a shady spot, avoiding direct sun until established.
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Keep the soil consistently moist but not soaked as plants adjust.
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Gradually acclimate back to brighter light over several weeks.
With some patience, ferns can transition successfully from water to potting soil.
The Benefits of Growing Ferns in Water
Beyond their graceful looks, cultivating ferns in water offers many advantages:
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Provides a unique, decorative display. Great for open shelving or containers.
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Allowing monitoring of root growth and health.
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Reduces the risk of overwatering compared to potting mix.
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Minimal care required, just weekly water changes and light.
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Avoid soil-borne diseases and fungus gnat issues.
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Easy to trim and propagate by division.
Give hydroponic water culture a try and unlock all the benefits of growing these lush ferns without soil!
Growing vibrant ferns in water is an easy and fun indoor gardening project. Follow this complete guide for successfully cultivating graceful ferns hydroponically. With the right care techniques, these plants can thrive for years in nothing but clean water. Enjoy their beauty as they flourish before your eyes.
Transitioning from Soil to Water
Now that you have your container ready, its time to transition your Boston Fern from soil to water. This step requires a bit of patience and care, but its not as intimidating as it sounds. Begin by gently removing as much soil from the roots as possible. To do this, soak the root ball in a bucket of warm water and rub the soil off of it gently.
Be careful not to damage the roots during this process. Its okay if some soil remains attached, as long as the majority is removed. Once the roots are mostly free from soil, rinse them under running water to wash away any remaining particles.
Place the cleaned roots into your prepared container and add enough water to cover them. Avoid submerging the entire plant, as this can lead to rot. The water should cover the roots but leave the leaves above the surface. Over time, the plant will adapt to its new environment and begin to grow in water.
Maintaining the quality of the water is crucial for the health of your Boston Fern. Stagnant or dirty water can lead to problems like root rot and the growth of harmful bacteria. To keep the water fresh, change it regularly—about once a week should do the trick.
To get rid of any algae or other residues that have built up, rinse the pot and the roots when you change the water. If you can, use water that is room temperature, distilled, or from rain. Tap water may contain chlorine and other chemicals that are bad for your plant.
Monitor the water level to ensure that the roots remain submerged. If you notice the water level dropping, simply top it up with fresh water. Keeping the water clean and at the right level will help your fern thrive in its new aquatic home.
Providing the Right Light and Temperature
Boston Ferns are known for their love of indirect light and a humid environment. When growing your fern in water, these factors become even more important. Position your fern in a spot where it receives bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can stunt its growth.
If youre unsure about the light conditions in your home, a north or east-facing window is usually a safe bet. You can also use sheer curtains to filter the light if necessary. If youre using artificial lighting, opt for fluorescent or LED lights that mimic natural daylight.
Temperature is another factor to consider. Boston Ferns prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid placing your fern near drafts, heaters, or air conditioners, as sudden temperature changes can stress the plant.
I Stopped Killing Ferns Once I Learned This
FAQ
Can you grow ferns without soil?
Staghorn ferns are iconic and well-known in the category of soilless houseplants. “Staghorn ferns grow without soil because they are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants or objects for support but are not parasitic,” says Peggy Anne Montgomery, horticulturist and representative for Flowerbulbs. eu.
What ferns can be submerged in water?
Popular Water Ferns: Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus), Trident Fern (Microsorum tridentatum), Bolbitis Fern (Bolbitis heudelotii), Water Lace Fern (Ceratopteris pteridoides), Borneo Fern (Trichomanes Javanicum), Salvinia Natans/ Floating Fern. Crepidomanes sp. Brevipes. Microsorum Pteropus ‘Needle Leaf’.
Will ferns grow in an aquarium?
Java Fern. The Java Fern, Microsorum Pteropus, is one of the most popular aquarium plants because it looks great and is easy to take care of.
Can Boston ferns live in water?
Situate Boston ferns indoors in bright, indirect sunlight away from drafty doors and heating vents. Provide as much humidity as possible and carefully monitor the soil to ensure plants stay consistently moist. Setting the plants on pebble trays with water is fine, as long as the pot doesn’t sit in water.