Boston fern repotting: check roots before changing pots

Boston fern repotting: check roots before changing pots

1. 01

   When to repot

   Lift the Boston fern to inspect the root ball when roots are congested, circle the pot, emerge through drainage holes or crowd the roots enough to make drainage unreliable. Do not use a calendar alone.

   Repot in spring as active growth begins. Avoid leaving fresh wet potting mix around a slow-growing fern in fall or winter.

2. 02

   Choosing the next pot

   If the roots need more room, move to a container no more than one third larger. For a small pot, about 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) more width and depth is the guide.

3. 03

   How to repot

   Use fresh peat-free potting mix that holds water while draining freely, keep the fern at its existing planting level, and trim only soft or rotted roots found during inspection.

4. 04

   After repotting

   Water the potting mix through after repotting and let excess drain. Return the fern to bright filtered light with humid air and a root zone that stays damp but not saturated.