How to Grow and Care for Button Ferns

Button ferns are like the charming underdogs of the plant world. With their petite, round leaves and playful appearance, they seem to be whispering, "Hey, take me home! I'm low-maintenance and cute!" Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your green journey, button ferns offer a delightful touch to any space.

In this article, we're going to chat about everything you need to know to grow and care for these adorable plants. From lighting and watering needs to dealing with common pests and designing your space with them, we'll cover it all. So, grab a cup of coffee and let's get into the wonderful world of button ferns.

Getting to Know Your Button Fern

Button ferns, also known as Pellaea rotundifolia, hail from New Zealand, where they naturally grow in the forest understory. Their round, leathery leaves grow along thin, wiry stems, making them quite unique compared to the more commonly seen ferns. This distinctive appearance makes them a standout choice for adding a bit of whimsy to your plant collection.

These ferns are generally small, usually growing about 12 inches tall and wide, which makes them perfect for apartments or small spaces. They're also non-toxic to pets, so you don't have to worry about your furry friends getting curious. While button ferns are relatively easygoing compared to their fussier fern cousins, understanding their basic needs will set you up for success.

Choosing the Right Spot

Button ferns prefer bright, indirect light, similar to what you'd find in a forest with dappled sunlight trickling through the canopy. Too much direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves, so think filtered light when you're picking a spot. A north or east-facing window often works well, but your button fern won't mind being a bit further from the window as long as it still receives a good amount of light.

Interestingly enough, these ferns can tolerate lower light conditions, though their growth might slow down. If you notice the leaves starting to stretch, it might be a sign they're not getting enough light. On the other hand, if the leaves look pale and scorched, it's likely getting too much. Finding that sweet spot might take a little trial and error, but that's part of the fun of plant parenthood.

Watering Wisely

Watering can be the trickiest part of caring for a button fern, as they can be a bit fussy about their moisture levels. They like their soil to be consistently damp but not soggy. Picture a sponge that's been wrung out—moist, but not dripping. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. This might mean watering once a week, but it really depends on your home's humidity and temperature.

If you're not sure whether it's time to water, you can do the finger test: stick your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If it feels dry, it's time to water. But if it's still damp, hold off for a couple of days. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, so it's better to err on the side of caution.

Humidity and Temperature

As a plant that thrives in the humid forests of New Zealand, button ferns appreciate a bit of extra moisture in the air. If your home tends to be on the dry side, especially in winter, consider using a humidity tray or a small humidifier nearby. Grouping your plants together can also create a mini microclimate that boosts humidity.

Temperature-wise, button ferns are pretty adaptable but prefer to stay in the range of 60-75°F. They don't like sudden temperature changes, so keep them away from drafts, heaters, or air conditioning vents. If they're comfortable for you, they'll be comfortable for your fern.

Soil and Potting

When it comes to soil, button ferns aren't too picky but prefer a well-draining mix. A standard houseplant or potting soil mixed with a bit of perlite or sand should do the trick. This ensures that excess water can drain away, preventing soggy soil and root rot.

As for pots, terracotta can be a good choice as it allows moisture to evaporate through the walls, which helps prevent overwatering. Just make sure your pot has drainage holes. Button ferns don't need a lot of room to grow, so you won't need to repot often, usually every couple of years or when you see roots poking out of the drainage holes.

Fertilizing Your Fern

Button ferns aren't heavy feeders, but they do appreciate a little boost during the growing season. A balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength is ideal. Fertilize once a month from spring through early fall, and skip the feeding during the winter months when the plant's growth naturally slows down.

Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to burnt leaves and other issues. If you're unsure, it's always better to under-fertilize than overdo it. Remember, plants in the wild don't get a regular feeding schedule—they rely on the nutrients naturally present in their environment.

Dealing with Pests and Problems

Button ferns are generally pretty resistant to pests, but like all houseplants, they're not completely immune. Keep an eye out for common culprits like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. If you notice any pests, a gentle spray with water or a solution of water and a few drops of dish soap can help. Neem oil is also a popular choice for a more natural pest control method.

Other issues might include browning leaves, which can be a sign of too much direct sunlight or underwatering. On the flip side, yellowing leaves might indicate overwatering. It's all about finding the right balance, and sometimes it requires a bit of patience and observation to get it just right.

Designing with Button Ferns

Button ferns, with their compact size and charming appearance, are perfect for adding a touch of greenery to a variety of spaces. They look fantastic in hanging baskets, where their stems can drape down beautifully. You can also place them in decorative pots on bookshelves, desks, or coffee tables—anywhere that needs a little splash of nature.

Incorporating them into terrariums is another creative option, as their humidity-loving nature makes them ideal candidates for closed environments. You could also mix them with other shade-loving plants like pothos or peace lilies to create a lush indoor garden. The key is to let their unique shape and texture shine, adding visual interest to your space without overwhelming it.

Propagation: Sharing the Green Love

Once you've mastered the care of your button fern, you might want to try your hand at propagation. It's a wonderful way to expand your plant collection or share with friends. The most common method for propagating button ferns is division. When your plant is mature and has several clumps, you can gently separate these and pot them individually.

To do this, remove the plant from its pot and carefully tease apart the roots to separate the clumps. Make sure each division has a good amount of roots and leaves. Repot them in fresh soil, water them well, and keep them in a similar light condition as the parent plant. It might take a little time for the new plants to adjust, but with care, they'll soon be thriving.

Final Thoughts

Caring for button ferns can be a rewarding experience, offering a touch of nature and whimsy to any interior space. By understanding their light, water, and temperature preferences, you'll keep your ferns healthy and vibrant for years to come. Plus, the joy of seeing them thrive in your home is truly unmatched.

At Cafe Planta, we're passionate about helping you care for your plants. Whether you're looking for new plants, accessories, or advice, we're here to support your plant journey. Feel free to reach out to us via email or Instagram. Let's grow together and create beautiful, green spaces in our homes!