Maidenhair Fern

bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) with no direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute). A north- or east-facing window is ideal. Direct sunlight scorches the delicate fronds quickly and causes bleaching. In very low light (more than 8 feet from a window, or a north-facing room. A grow light 10-12 inches away works great if your windows are not cutting it), fronds become sparse and pale - if that is happening, move closer to a window or add a grow light.

This plant needs 50 to 70% relative humidity and will struggle below that threshold. In most homes, you will need active humidity management - a cool-mist humidifier placed nearby is the most reliable solution. Pebble trays help but usually do not move the needle enough on their own. A bathroom or kitchen with natural steam is a good location. Terrariums are ideal.

A moisture-retentive but well-aerated mix is key. Equal parts standard potting mix and peat moss works well. Do not use a mix with added fertilizer - it dissolves too fast and burns delicate fern roots. A slightly acidic pH around 6.0 is ideal.

Brown, crispy fronds are the most common complaint and are almost always caused by low humidity or dry soil - resist the urge to cut the plant back aggressively when this happens, as new growth will emerge. Scale and mealybugs occasionally appear; check the undersides of fronds regularly. The entire plant can die back and then regrow from the rhizome, so do not give up on a seemingly dead plant - water it, boost humidity, and wait a few weeks.