How to Care for Ferns in Winter

By Emma Johnson · January 23, 2026

How to Care for Ferns in the Winter: Quick Answer

During winter, care for ferns by maintaining consistent moisture, providing high humidity (ideally 50–70%), keeping temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C), and placing them in bright, indirect light. Avoid cold drafts, overwatering, and dry indoor air from heating systems.

Why Winter Is Challenging for Ferns

Ferns are naturally adapted to humid, shaded forest environments. Indoor winter conditions often feature low humidity due to heating, reduced natural light, and temperature fluctuations—all of which stress tropical and temperate fern species.

Common Winter Stressors for Indoor Ferns

Dry air from radiators or HVAC systems (<20% humidity)
Cold drafts near windows or doors
Inconsistent watering leading to root rot or dehydration
Reduced sunlight affecting photosynthesis
Sudden temperature drops below 55°F (13°C)

Light Requirements for Ferns in Winter

While ferns prefer indirect light year-round, shorter daylight hours in winter mean you must optimize placement:

Tips for Maximizing Light Exposure

Place near an east- or north-facing window for soft morning light
Avoid direct southern exposure unless filtered with sheer curtains
Rotate pots weekly to ensure even growth
Supplement with full-spectrum grow lights if natural light is insufficient

Watering Ferns Properly During Cold Months

Overwatering is the top cause of winter fern death. Plants grow more slowly in cooler months, so their water needs decrease.

Best Practices for Winter Watering

Check soil moisture before watering—only water when the top inch feels dry
Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking roots
Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing excess to drain out

Humidity Management for Healthy Winter Ferns

Most ferns thrive at 50–70% relative humidity. Average indoor winter humidity ranges from 10–30%, making supplemental moisture essential.

Effective Ways to Increase Humidity

Use a cool-mist humidifier near your ferns
Place plants on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure pots aren't sitting in water)
Group plants together to create a microclimate
Mist foliage lightly in the morning (avoid over-misting, which can promote fungal issues)

Fern Type	Min Temp (°F)	Min Temp (°C)	Humidity Needs (%)	Water Frequency (Winter)
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)	55	13	50–70	Every 7–10 days
Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum spp.)	60	16	70–80	Every 5–7 days
Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum)	50	10	50–60	Every 10–14 days
Rabbit's Foot Fern (Davallia fejeensis)	55	13	50–65	Every 7–10 days
Staghorn Fern (Platycerium bifurcatum)	60	16	60–80	Mist 2–3x/week + soak monthly

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows that tropical ferns like Maidenhair and Staghorn require warmer temperatures and higher humidity, making them more challenging to maintain indoors during winter. Boston and Rabbit's Foot ferns are slightly more adaptable but still need protection from cold and dry air. Adjusting watering frequency based on species-specific needs prevents root rot and desiccation.

Fertilizing and Pruning in Winter

Ferns enter a semi-dormant phase in winter, so fertilization should be reduced or paused entirely.

Fertilizer & Maintenance Tips

Suspend feeding from November to February unless new growth appears
If fertilizing, use a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at half strength once every 6–8 weeks
Remove brown or yellow fronds to encourage healthy growth and reduce disease risk
Inspect regularly for pests like spider mites, which thrive in dry indoor air

Choosing the Right Location Indoors

Proper placement significantly impacts fern health. Avoid these common pitfalls:

Do’s and Don’ts for Indoor Placement

Do: Place in a bathroom or kitchen if humidity is adequate
Do: Use a hygrometer to monitor room humidity levels
Don’t: Position near heat vents, fireplaces, or drafty entryways
Don’t: Move plants frequently, as ferns dislike environmental changes

Frequently Asked Questions About Caring for Ferns in Winter

Can I keep my outdoor ferns alive during winter?

Yes, hardy ferns (like Christmas fern or Japanese tassel fern) can survive freezing temperatures with mulch protection. Tender varieties should be brought indoors before the first frost to avoid cold damage.

Why are my fern’s leaves turning brown in winter?

Brown leaves are typically caused by low humidity, inconsistent watering, or exposure to cold drafts. Trim affected fronds and increase humidity using a humidifier or pebble tray to restore health.

Should I mist my fern in winter?

Misting can help temporarily, but it’s not a long-term solution. It may also promote fungal diseases if done excessively. A humidifier or grouped plant display provides more stable moisture.

How often should I water a fern in winter?

Most ferns need watering every 7–10 days in winter, depending on species and environment. Always check the top inch of soil before watering—overwatering leads to root rot, especially in cooler temps.

Can ferns survive in low light during winter?

Few ferns tolerate true low light. While they don’t need direct sun, they require bright, indirect light. In dark homes, use LED grow lights (12–14 hours/day) to supplement natural light and maintain vigor.