Erect Sword Fern - Diabolic Gardens

Flora - Ferns

Erect Sword Fern

The erect sword fern is an upright, evergreen fern with sword-shaped, deep green fronds. It can reach heights of 30 inches and forms dense clumps. Its fronds have a feather-like pinnate arrangement, though the texture is tougher than that of a Boston fern. The plant is known for its robust nature and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, including shade and drier soils.

Erect Sword Fern

Nephrolepis cordifolia

Adopted:

2025-04-05

Size:

Height 30 inches

Care:

Light:

Erect sword ferns thrive in partial to full shade, but they can tolerate bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Water:

Maintain consistently moist soil, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Water deeply and regularly, especially during the growing season, but reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant. n the winter, growth slows down, and watering should be reduced.

Humidity:

Erect sword ferns prefer humid environments. Consider using a humidifier or a pebble tray to increase humidity, especially during the winter months.

Temperature:

Erect sword ferns prefer temperatures between 65 and 75°F.

Soil:

They prefer well-draining, rich organic soil that retains moisture but doesn't become waterlogged. Repot after the plant doubles in size or once a year, whichever comes first.

Fertilizer:

Fertilizing is generally not necessary for erect sword ferns, especially during their dormant period. If you choose to fertilize, use a balanced, diluted fertilizer during the spring and summer growing seasons.

Pruning:

To prune an erect sword fern, cut off all yellowed, dead, or damaged fronds in late winter or early spring, right before new growth begins

Propagation:

Erect sword ferns are typically propagated through rhizome division or spores. Division involves carefully separating the rhizomes into smaller sections, each with its own roots and fronds, and replanting them. Spore propagation is a more involved process, requiring harvesting spores, sowing them on a suitable medium, and nurturing the resulting prothalli until they develop into small fern plants.

The Erect Sword Fern does not have the wispy runners produced on the Boston fern. Instead it produces an underground rhizome that enlarges the size of the clump.They are a hardy species, and although they prefer cool temperatures and consistent moisture, they can survive dry periods. Erect sword ferns are generally considered safe for pets, including dogs and cats.

7/19/25

GROW LOG:

4/11/2025 - Repotted
4/5/2025 - Adopted Denzel

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