How to Grow and Care for Button Fern Plants
Learn to successfully grow the charming button fern. This guide covers the specific environmental balance this unique, pet-friendly houseplant needs to thrive.
The button fern, known scientifically as Pellaea rotundifolia, is a distinctive plant native to New Zealand and Australia. This fern grows arching fronds up to 10 inches long with small, round leaflets that resemble buttons. The contrast between its dark green, glossy leaflets and reddish-brown stems provides an appealing visual texture, making it a popular choice for indoor collections.
Button Fern Care
Light
Button ferns flourish in medium to bright indirect light, like that from a north-facing window. While they can tolerate lower light, this may cause the plant to become leggy. Keep the fern out of direct sunlight, as intense exposure will scorch its delicate leaves.
Water
Button ferns require consistently moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if left in waterlogged conditions. Water the plant with room temperature water when the top inch of soil feels dry. After watering, ensure the pot drains completely to prevent the fern from sitting in excess water.
Soil
A well-draining, peat-based potting mix is suitable for a button fern. You can create your own mix by combining standard houseplant soil with perlite or sand to improve aeration and drainage. The plant prefers soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level.
Temperature and Humidity
This fern grows best in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It thrives with humidity levels between 50% and 70%, making bathrooms and kitchens good locations. To increase moisture in the air, you can mist the plant regularly, use a humidifier, or place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Fertilizer
During the spring and summer growing season, feed your button fern every four to six weeks. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half its recommended strength to avoid over-fertilizing. Do not feed the plant during the fall and winter when its growth slows.
Propagating and Repotting a Button Fern
Propagating a button fern is done through division, a process best performed during repotting in spring or summer. When the fern looks crowded, gently remove it from its pot. Inspect the root ball and rhizomes, then use your hands or a clean knife to separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each has healthy roots and several fronds.
Plant the divisions in small pots with a well-draining potting mix at the same soil depth they were previously growing. Water the new plants well to help the soil settle around the roots. Place the newly potted ferns in a location with bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity to help them establish.
Common Button Fern Problems
Crispy, brown fronds indicate low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity and ensure your watering is consistent, keeping the fern away from drafts or heating vents. Yellowing leaves can signal root rot from overwatering, so check the roots and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Spider mites are a common pest, as they thrive in dry conditions. Regularly inspect the undersides of the leaflets for fine webbing. If pests are present, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Button Fern Toxicity
The button fern (Pellaea rotundifolia) is considered non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. This makes it a safe and attractive option for adding greenery to homes with pets and small children.