How to Water a Bird's Nest Fern

The bird's nest fern (Asplenium nidus) is a tropical plant originating in Southeast Asia and Australia. It is important to keep this tropical plant out of direct sunlight and away from drafts. Spray the fronds with water and wipe them with a damp, lint-free cloth to keep them from dust. People living in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 9 through 11 can grow the bird's nest fern outdoors in full shade, but in colder areas, it is grown as a houseplant.

Things You'll Need

• Dish
• Small stones
• Sprayer

Instructions

1. Stick your finger into the soil and feel for moisture. If the soil is dry, it needs to be watered.

2. Pour water into the soil. Place a container beneath the bird's nest fern to catch the water. Do not pour any water into the center of the bird's nest fern, because your plant could rot.

3. Water until it comes out from the bottom drainage holes. Do not allow the fern to sit in the water because it will suffocate the plant's roots.

4. Place rocks or small stones in the bottom of the dish. Pour in water, but do not cover the top of the stones. Place the plant's pot on the stones to provide humidity.

5. Mist the bird's nest fern daily using a spray bottle.

Tips & Warnings

• Cut back on watering in the winter.

• Watch the leaves of the plant. If they are turning yellow, this is usually a sign of overwatering.

References

• Monrovia: Austral Gem Bird's Nest Fern
• Guide to Houseplants; Bird's Nest Fern
• "Favorite Houseplants"; Don Dooley; 1976
• "The Houseplant Expert"; D.G. Hessayon; 1980