Maidenhair Fern Care Tips: How to Grow Maidenhair Ferns

Maidenhair ferns are a type of deciduous, clumping fern native to both temperate and tropical climates. The maidenhair fern belongs to the genus Adiantum. The genus name is derived from the Greek word “adiantos,” which means "unwetted.” This refers to the fact that the plant’s fronds repel moisture.

Maidenhair ferns spread by branching out from root systems called rhizomes and produce small, green, fan-shaped leaves on spindly black stems. Maidenhair ferns grow in shady areas, near waterfalls, and along rock walls.

The Adiantum genus contains several types of maidenhair ferns. Consider some of the most common varieties of maidenhair fern.

1. 1. Southern maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris): The Southern maidenhair fern, also as Venus hair fern, is native to parts of the southwest coast of the United States, Central America, and South America. As such, it grows best in USDA hardiness zones ten and eleven.
2. 2. Delta maidenhair fern (Adiantum raddianum): The Delta maidenhair fern is native to South America. Similar to the Southern maidenhair fern, this variety grows best in USDA hardiness zones ten and eleven. It thrives in high-humidity conditions and is best grown inside a terrarium.
3. 3. Northern maidenhair fern (Adiantum pedatum): The Northern maidenhair fern is native to North America and does best in USDA hardiness zones three through eight. It grows long fronds in a semi-circle arrangement, branching out from a central rootstock. In early spring, this variety produces dark red fiddleheads.

Consider these factors and maidenhair fern care tips when growing your plant indoors or outdoors.

1. 1. Climate: Typically, maidenhair ferns can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones nine to eleven in areas of the garden that receive indirect light. However, some varieties are native to cooler climates, so research your specific maidenhair fern’s needs before planting it outdoors. All types of maidenhair ferns can be kept year-round as indoor plants.
2. 2. Light: Maidenhair ferns are low-light plants that do not do well in direct sunlight. To protect the plant’s delicate leaves, choose an area of your house that gets indirect light or a mix of filtered light and shade. If planted outdoors, keep your fern out of direct sun and be sure to provide your plant shade from the afternoon sun.
3. 3. Humidity: Maidenhair ferns do not do well in dry air. If you see brown leaves on your plant, it's likely due to a lack of humidity. For the best results, place your plant on a water-filled pebble tray or near a humidifier. Misting your plant, in addition to watering the potting soil regularly, is a good way to ensure it remains moist. You may also consider keeping your fern in a humid part of your home like a bathroom.
4. 4. Soil: Plant your maidenhair fern in a potting mix that is rich with water-retaining organic matter such as peat moss or compost.
5. 5. Container: If potting indoors, choose a plastic pot with drainage holes to keep it moist while also minimizing the risk of overwatering. Avoid using terracotta pots, which tend to absorb moisture away from the plant. Be sure to plant each fern in its own pot. Depending on the initial pot size, they can benefit from repotting annually, which may help encourage new growth.
6. 6. Water: Check the soil moisture every couple of days. You want to keep the soil moist, but not overly wet as overwatering can lead to root rot. If you see yellow leaves, it's likely due to overwatering. Water your fern more often during the growing season from spring to summer to encourage new fronds.
7. 7. Pests: Mealybugs commonly attack the fronds of maidenhair ferns. If you see an infestation of bugs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to remove them.

Grow your own garden with Ron Finley, the self-described "Gangster Gardener." Get the MasterClass Annual Membership and learn how to cultivate fresh herbs and vegetables, keep your house plants alive, and use compost to make your community—and the world—a better place.