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Boston Ferns are a cultivar of the Sword Fern and have become a popular seller for their growth habit. Boston Massii has a growth habit perfect for producing a full, cascading plant. They work well in hanging baskets and thrive in humid environments. Your customers may like the fact that Boston Ferns do not need much fertilizer, and they do not need as much care as most other plants. With moderate attention, these durable baskets will last all summer on your customer’s front porch.
Growing Tips
For best results with True Boston Massii, we recommend using a well-drained loamy, acidic soil with a constant feed program of 150-200 ppm N. Maintain a pH between 5 - 5.5. Keep the soil evenly moist, but don't allow it to be come saturated for a long period of time. Try to water early in the morning as the temperature is still rising. Avoid watering in the middle of the day when the sun is high as this could damage the fronds.
Pinching
Ferns do not require pinching.
Spacing
Space pots as needed to allow air flow and penetration of light between plants.
Height Control
Plant growth regulators are not recommended for Boston Ferns.
Pests
Brown scales, caterpillars, and whiteflies are the biggest pest problems for Boston Ferns.
Disease
Boston Ferns are not prone to many diseases, but watch for botrytis while the days are short. This grey rot is usually associated with wet or humid conditions. You can prevent botrytis by allowing the plant to dry out between waterings, allowing for good airflow in your greenhouse, and spacing to allow the sun to penetrate to the soil level. The most common chemicals used to treat botrytis are Medallion and Banrot. Use them as a drench according to each label’s instructions.
Planting True Boston Massii Liners
We recommend planting one plant per 4 inch pot. Use a well-drained soil in your baskets and plant your starter plants deep, allowing the ellepot to be completely covered by the soil. Planting one established 4” pot per 10” basket should produce a full product in 8-10 weeks.
Pinchingis not necessary.
Rooted Cuttings
Cuttings vary in size between different plant families. These rooted starter plants will arrive ready to be transplanted in to your final container. If they are to be used in a landscape application, you will need to establish them in a 4 inch pot or an 1801 before planting outside.
