How to Care for a Blue Bear Claw Fern

How to Care for a Blue Bear Claw Fern thumbnail
The existence of ferns dates back about 300 million years.

Ferns are ancient plants that have been around for millions of years. They make terrific garden plants, requiring little maintenance and attracting very few pests or plant diseases. Ferns don't bear flowers or fruit, but they make for great garden foliage. A blue bear claw fern is a plant that requires little attention and is simple to care for. Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

  • Blue bear claw fern
  • Course, well-drained soil
  • pH strips
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1
      Blue bear claw ferns thrive in warm, shaded areas.
      Blue bear claw ferns thrive in warm, shaded areas.

      Find a warm, partially shaded area to keep the fern. Blue bear claw ferns prefer warm environments, but they don't withstand the heat of direct sunlight well.

    • 2
      The acidity of the soil will affect your fern.
      The acidity of the soil will affect your fern.

      Maintain the soil's pH levels. Blue bear claw ferns thrive in soil that has a pH level of between 5.6 and 6.0. Test the soil's pH levels by inserting pH strips into the ground; the strips will accurately indicate what the pH level is.

    • 3
      Plant blue bear claw ferns so they have plenty of space to grow.
      Plant blue bear claw ferns so they have plenty of space to grow.

      Plant the fern at least 12 to15 inches away from other plants. Blue bear claw ferns have large fronds that need space. If you choose to hang the fern, use a pot that is at least 1 foot in diameter.

    • 4
      Ferns need an average amount of water.
      Ferns need an average amount of water.

      Water the fern regularly. Check that your blue bear claw fern has the right amount of water by checking the soil's moisture. The soil should always feel moist -- not drenched but not dry, either.

Tips & Warnings

  • To raise your soil's pH level -- or to make it less acidic -- use a pulverized, granular or hydrated material that contains some form of lime. To lower your soil's pH level -- or to make it more acidic -- use a pulverized, granular or hydrated aluminum sulfate or sulfur.

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References

  • Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

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