Enriching the aesthetic appeal of homes and offices alike, houseplants are a popular way to bring a touch of nature indoors. One standout member of the indoor gardening family is the Silver Lace Fern, scientifically known as Pteris ensiformis 'Evergemiensis'.

Renowned for its unique, intricate silver-white foliage adorned with striking green veins, this tropical beauty is a visual treat. Its delicate silver fronds can add a touch of elegance and visual intrigue to any corner of your home or office. However, as captivating as this fern may be, proper care is integral to ensuring a robust, thriving plant.

This brief guide will go over everything you need to know and explain how to keep your Silver Lace Fern vibrant and healthy year-round.  

Optimal Soil Conditions

The Silver Lace Fern favors a well-draining soil that is rich in humus and maintains moderate moisture levels. The soil pH should ideally fall between 5.6 and 7. Avoid waterlogged or dry soil, both can be harmful to the fern. Adding peat moss or perlite can improve the drainage and aeration of heavy soils.

Appropriate Lighting

This fern flourishes under bright indirect light or filtered sunlight, needing at least six hours daily. A north or west-facing window is a great placement choice. However, do avoid direct sunlight as it may cause leaf scorching. Notably, this fern requires more light than most ferns due to its highly variegated foliage.

Watering Needs

The Silver Lace Fern prefers consistently moist soil. Aim to water the plant when the top layer appears dry but beware of overwatering. A useful tip to avoid overwatering is to wait for water to flow out of the drainage hole before stopping. Remember, these ferns don’t appreciate water treated with fluorides, chlorine, and mineral salts - filtered water is ideal.

Ideal Temperature and Humidity

The Silver Lace Fern thrives best in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-26°C) and cannot tolerate temperatures below 55°F (12°C). These ferns also prefer an environment with around 70-80% atmospheric humidity. If the humidity levels drop, the fronds may curl up and turn brown. To maintain sufficient moisture, consider using a humidifier or placing the pot on a pebble tray.

Fertilization and Propagation

While not necessary, an all-purpose fertilizer can speed up the slow growth of your fern. Apply it every 40 days during the growing season, always watering the plant before adding the fertilizer. The Silver Lace Fern can be propagated in a few different ways; one of the most popular techniques is the division method, where rhizomes with roots are separated to develop into individual plants.

Potential Issues and Solutions

Despite being a resilient plant, Silver Lace Ferns can encounter issues such as becoming root bound or infested with mealybugs. If the plant becomes root-bound, you can simply repot it into a larger pot. For mealybug issues, you can always treat the plant with a simple home-made dish soap solution.

Final Thoughts

The Silver Lace Fern, with its splendid foliage and intricate detailing, is a delightful addition to any indoor plant collection. It’s not just a visual treat, but also a symbol of your commitment to nurturing the environment, even within your own living spaces.

With proper care and attention, this plant can thrive all year round. Whether housed in pots, terrariums, or vivariums, the Silver Lace Fern is an excellent choice for home gardeners, both beginners and veterans alike.

Experience the joy of nurturing this charming plant for yourself. If you're interested in welcoming the Silver Lace Fern into your home, then be sure to explore the wide range of options available at Varnish & Vine.