Plant watering guide › Houseplants
How often to water a fern
Nephrolepis exaltata
Spring–autumn 3 days
Winter 5 days
In a bright room, water your fern about every 3 days from spring to autumn and every 5 days in winter. Check that the top of the soil is dry first.
By season and light
| Season | Bright spot | Lower light |
|---|---|---|
| Spring to autumn (Apr–Oct) | every 3 days | every 4 days |
| November and March | every 4 days | every 5 days |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | every 5 days | every 6 days |
These are the starting intervals Trellis uses when you add a fern. Growth slows in winter, so the interval is stretched 1.5× in Dec–Feb and 1.25× in November and March, and 1.3× in lower light (seasons are flipped in the Southern Hemisphere). Pot size and room temperature change things, so adjust to how fast the soil dries.
Where to put it
Bright room (behind a sheer curtain)
Bright shade
Seasonal notes
Winter
- Keep it away from heater vents in winter
Summer
- It dries out quickly in summer
Tips for your fern
- Ferns like their soil evenly moist
- Misting keeps the fronds lush
- Snip brown fronds at the base
Trellis
Add your fern and Trellis reminds you on watering day
- Starts at every 3 days. You can change it any time
- Invite family and see who watered what (free)
- Keep growth photos and share them as cards
Free to start. Pro is a one-time purchase, not a subscription.
