Boston ferns are a popular houseplant known for their lush green fronds and graceful arching shape. One of the unique features of Boston ferns is their ability to produce runners. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of Boston fern runners, including how they grow, how to propagate them, and how to care for the new plants. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or new to plant propagation, understanding Boston fern runners can be a rewarding and exciting journey.
Boston Fern Runners Overview
Boston Ferns are popular houseplants known for their attractive foliage and dangling runners, which can create a lush appearance. The runners of Boston Ferns, or stolons, are thin, wiry stems that grow horizontally from the main plant, playing a crucial role in the reproduction process (Gardening Dream).
These runners vary in color, commonly appearing as green, brown, or rusty-colored. With curled or coiled tips, the runners can grow up to 2 feet in length (My Heart Lives Here). Being careful in managing these runners is essential to maintain the desired growth of Boston Ferns in your space.
Identification Features
In order to properly identify Boston fern runners, it’s important to focus on their main features: color and texture, as well as their growth pattern.
Color and Texture
Boston fern runners, also known as stolons, are typically thin, wiry stems that come from the main plant. They are generally green in color, but may also be brown or rusty-colored, depending on their age and the condition of the plant they emerge from. The tips of Boston fern runners usually have a curled or coiled appearance, adding to their distinctive look. (source)
Growth Pattern
These runners grow horizontally from the main plant and can reach up to 2 feet in length. Fern runners are a natural part of the plant’s growth, and they serve to propagate new plants as they extend outwards. When a runner comes into contact with a suitable growing medium, it can develop roots and eventually give rise to a new plant. (source)
By understanding the unique features of Boston fern runners, such as their color, texture, and growth pattern, it becomes easier to identify and care for these striking houseplants.
Propagation Methods
Boston ferns can be propagated using various methods, which primarily include dividing the root ball and air layering.
Dividing the Root Ball
One effective way to propagate Boston ferns is through division, which entails separating smaller sections of the plant from the main root ball. This method involves digging up the fern, carefully separating the roots, and replanting the new plants into individual pots. This allows for the successful creation of multiple new ferns from a single, mature plant, and is a relatively simple process for gardeners to follow. For more information, visit The Practical Planter.
Air Layering
Another propagation method for Boston ferns is called air layering or propagating from runners. This technique requires locating healthy runners, which are leafless stems emerging from the fern. These runners can be used to cultivate new plants by either securing them to a moistened rooting medium or placing them in contact with the soil. Once roots have developed, the new plants can be separated from the main fern and grown independently. A step-by-step guide can be found at Simplify Plants.
Common Problems and Solutions
Browning Fronds
Boston ferns may experience browning fronds as a result of inadequate moisture in the atmosphere or compost. To address this issue, it is essential to properly water the plant, making sure not to overwater, as this can lead to wilting or yellowing leaves and potential root rot. By maintaining a humid environment and appropriate watering schedule, the health and appearance of the fern’s fronds can be improved.
Trimming and Pruning
Over time, it is normal for Boston ferns to display old, discolored fronds that may turn yellow or brown. This can occur due to older leaves being shaded by new growth, or the presence of leafless runners. To properly trim and prune the plant, focus on removing these discolored fronds and any excessive growth or dangling runners. This helps maintain the fern’s overall appearance and promotes healthy growth.
When dividing Boston fern plants, it is crucial to carefully cut a 1 to 2-inch section and trim the roots to fit in a smaller clay pot, ensuring proper drainage and well-draining potting medium. This allows the young fern to grow successfully on its own and promotes a healthier overall plant.
Caring for Your Boston Fern Runners
Watering Requirements
It is important to keep the soil of Boston ferns consistently moist at all times. Ensure the soil never dries out, as this may cause the plant to become crisp and lose its leaves1. When caring for Boston fern runners, water them lightly and make sure the container has a drainage hole2.
Light Requirements
Boston ferns thrive in cool places with high humidity and indirect light3. When propagating Boston fern runners, place them in a bright location with indirect light to encourage growth4. Adjust the sunlight exposure by moving the ferns around, keeping them 2-5 feet away from a south or west-facing window during fall and spring5.
Soil and Fertilizer Needs
For optimal growth, plant Boston fern runners in sterile potting soil6. A peaty, soil-based potting mix is recommended for Boston ferns to retain sufficient moisture7. Fertilize the ferns with a balanced houseplant formula at half strength once a month during spring and summer8.
Helpful Video
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
