Boston ferns are known for their vibrant foliage and graceful appearance. However, if your Boston fern is drooping, it could be a sign that something is wrong. In this article, we will explore the various causes of drooping leaves in Boston ferns and provide practical solutions to revive your plant.
Understanding the Dilemma of Droopy Boston Ferns
Droopy leaves or stems are clear indicators that your Boston fern is facing some sort of problem. When the plant doesn’t receive adequate care and ideal growing conditions, it will eventually droop. It is important to identify the exact cause of the drooping and take appropriate action before the situation worsens.
Common Causes of Droopy Leaves in Boston Ferns
Several factors can contribute to droopy leaves in Boston ferns. Let’s delve into each of these causes and explore their effects on your beloved fern.
1. Underwatering
Underwatering is one of the main culprits behind droopy leaves in Boston ferns. These plants thrive in moist conditions, so if the soil isn’t watered adequately for a prolonged period, the leaves will gradually lose their turgidity and start to droop. Signs of underwatering include curly and crispy leaves, browning at the edges and tips, and dry and compact soil. To rectify this issue, water your plant regularly and ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Solution: Prune damaged leaves, aerate the soil, and water your Boston fern thoroughly until the water drains out from the bottom. You can also soak the plant in a container of water for 30-45 minutes to rehydrate it. Create a watering schedule and monitor the moisture level using a moisture meter to prevent underwatering.
2. Overwatering
On the other hand, overwatering can also cause droopy leaves in Boston ferns and can be more harmful than underwatering. It leads to poor root health and can even result in root rot. Signs of overwatering include damp and soggy soil, lower leaves turning yellow, brown edges and tips, and a foul smell emanating from the soil.
Solution: Stop watering the plant immediately and allow the soil to dry out. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to aid in drying. If the plant is severely affected, inspect the roots for signs of infection and repot it using fresh soil if necessary. Avoid fertilizing or watering the plant until it has fully recovered.
3. Incorrect Lighting
Incorrect lighting can also cause your Boston fern’s leaves to droop. These plants require indirect sunlight to thrive. Insufficient light or exposure to intense direct sunlight can cause the leaves to droop. Signs of too much light include discoloration, burnt and scorched leaves, curly leaves, and bleached spots. Signs of low light include stretched and leggy growth, faded green and yellow leaves, stunted growth, and smaller leaves.
Solution: Place your Boston fern in an area with indirect sunlight, preferably near a north or east-facing window. Avoid placing it near west or south-facing windows as the light intensity is too high. If necessary, use sheer curtains or window films to filter the light. If natural light is insufficient, supplement it with artificial lights.
4. Overfertilization
While overfertilization can harm your Boston fern, regular fertilization is still important. Excessive fertilization can burn the roots and hinder their ability to transfer moisture and nutrients, resulting in weakness and droopy leaves. Common signs of overfertilization include a white crust on the soil surface, brown spots on the leaves, wilting, and browning of tips or edges.
Solution: If you have recently overfertilized your Boston fern, remove the top layer of soil and water the plant thoroughly to flush out excess fertilizer. If the damage is severe, repot the plant using fresh soil. Ensure you only fertilize your fern once a month during the growing season, using a water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20:10:20.
5. Underfertilization
On the other hand, underfertilization can also lead to weakened growth and droopy leaves in your Boston fern. The soil may lack essential nutrients, which are lost with each watering. Signs of underfertilization include slow or no growth, weak stems and branches, and faded leaves.
Solution: Fertilize your Boston fern once a month during the summer and spring seasons using a water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20:10:20. Dilute the fertilizer with water at half strength to avoid overfertilization. Refrain from fertilizing during the winter when the fern is dormant.
6. Lack of Humidity
Boston ferns are tropical plants and require a humidity level of at least 50% to thrive. If the humidity drops below this level, the fern can suffer. Signs of low humidity, similar to underwatering, include crispy, dry, curly, brown, and droopy leaves.
Solution: Increase humidity around your Boston fern by misting it regularly, using a humidifier, grouping it with other houseplants, using a tray of water and pebbles, or placing it in the bathroom where humidity tends to be higher.
7. Temperature Stress
Extreme temperatures can stress your Boston fern and cause its leaves to droop. High temperatures above 95°F lead to dehydration, while low temperatures below 40°F can damage the plant’s cells. Sudden temperature changes when introducing the plant to a new environment can also cause stress.
Solution: Protect your Boston fern from extreme temperatures by keeping it away from frosty windows, heating objects, and air conditioners. Avoid placing it near windows or doors that frequently open and close. Use a thermostat to maintain a stable temperature indoors.
8. Transplant Shock
Transplanting can shock Boston ferns due to a sudden change in their growing environment. Damaged roots during repotting can hinder the transfer of water and nutrients, leading to weakness and droopy leaves. Repotting during the fern’s dormant period, such as winter, can also cause stress.
Solution: Be cautious when repotting, ensuring minimal damage to the roots. Choose a potting soil similar to the previous one to avoid stressing the plant. Water the plant adequately after repotting to reduce stress.
9. Pest Infestations
Sap-sucking pests like spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, thrips, and scales can attack Boston ferns, dehydrating the plant and causing it to weaken and droop. Signs of pest infestations include webs, spots on the leaves, silver dots (indicating mites), and distorted leaves.
Solution: Remove visible pests by showering the plant or using wet cotton balls soaked in isopropyl alcohol. Treat the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap to eliminate pests. In severe cases, use pesticides. Regular application of neem oil can help prevent future infestations.
Pruning Droopy Leaves
Pruning is necessary only when more than 50% of the leaf is damaged. Prune brown, crispy, and yellow leaves to encourage new growth. Use a sharp and sterilized scissor for clean cuts, removing only the affected portions of the leaves.
By understanding the causes of droopy leaves in Boston ferns and implementing the appropriate solutions, you can prevent and revive your beloved plant. With proper care and attention, your Boston fern will once again flourish, bringing beauty and vitality to your space.