How to care for a bird’s nest fern

How to care for a Bird's Nest Fern

Our tips for helping it grow healthy and strong

The Bird's Nest Fern, scientifically known as Asplenium nidus, is an epiphytic plant native to the tropical regions of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. At our company, we love this plant for its glossy, wavy leaves that resemble a bird's nest, adding an exotic, fresh touch to indoor spaces.

The right spot

The Bird's Nest Fern prefers bright, indirect light, but can also tolerate lower-light conditions. It's important to avoid direct sunlight, which could scorch the leaves. Place it somewhere it can receive filtered light, such as near a window covered by a light curtain.

Illustration: place the Bird's Nest Fern near a window with indirect light
The right spot for your plant

When and how to water it

During summer, we recommend watering your fern every 7 days, while in winter, every 14 days is enough. Make sure the soil feels dry to the touch before watering, and avoid waterlogging, which could damage the roots. Check the soil moisture by inserting a finger into the substrate.

Annual watering schedule for the Bird's Nest Fern, with different frequencies in summer and winter
The watering schedule throughout the year

Temperature and humidity

Bird's Nest Fern thrives in an environment with temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. It's important to maintain medium humidity, between 40% and 60%, to prevent the leaves from turning brown. If necessary, you can increase humidity with a humidifier or by placing the plant on a tray with pebbles and water.

Thermometer showing the ideal temperature range and humidity level for the Bird's Nest Fern
Comfortable temperature and humidity

The right fertilizer

During the growing season, in spring and summer, it's helpful to feed your fern with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 30 days. This will help the plant maintain lush, healthy foliage.

The pot and soil

For your Bird's Nest Fern, choose well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat and perlite is ideal for ensuring the right balance between moisture retention and drainage. Repot the plant when its roots start growing out of the pot's drainage holes.

How to propagate it

Bird's Nest Ferns are mainly propagated by division. Although it can be a little difficult, with patience and care you can grow new plants. Be sure to divide the parent plant gently, keeping the roots intact.

Our final tip

To keep your Bird's Nest Fern healthy, remember to monitor humidity and avoid direct sunlight. With the right care, this plant will reward you with lush green foliage that will enhance your space.

— Giulia's Gardens