19 Disadvantages of Royal Ferns You Should Know About

Royal ferns, with their lush green foliage and elegant appearance, can be a lovely addition to any home or garden. However, like every plant, they come with their own set of challenges. While these plants are beautiful, there are some disadvantages that you should consider before adding one to your plant collection.

In this article, we’ll explore the various drawbacks of growing royal ferns, from their specific care requirements to potential problems you might encounter. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your plant journey, understanding these challenges can help you make informed decisions and manage your expectations.

1. High Humidity Needs

Royal ferns thrive in environments with high humidity, which can be a bit tricky to maintain indoors. Without sufficient moisture in the air, the leaves may turn brown or crispy at the edges, which is not exactly the look any plant lover is going for.

If you live in a dry climate or have the heater running in the winter, you might find yourself with a humidity dilemma. To combat this, consider investing in a humidifier or placing your fern in a naturally humid area, like a bathroom with good lighting. Alternatively, grouping your plants together can create a microclimate that boosts humidity. But be prepared for the extra effort it takes to maintain these conditions consistently.

2. Sensitive to Overwatering

Overwatering is a common issue with houseplants, and royal ferns are no exception. They require consistently moist soil, but too much water can lead to root rot, a condition that's often fatal for plants.

To strike the right balance, make sure your pot has good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix. It’s also helpful to water your ferns when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be mindful of the seasons, as plants typically need less water during the dormant months of winter.

3. Specific Soil Requirements

Royal ferns are a bit picky when it comes to soil. They prefer a rich, loamy soil that can retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. This can be a challenge if you're used to potting mixes that are more general purpose.

To meet their needs, consider mixing your own soil with components like peat, perlite, and compost to provide the right balance of nutrients and drainage. While this might seem like a hassle, getting the soil just right is critical for keeping your royal fern healthy and thriving.

4. Susceptible to Pests

Like many houseplants, royal ferns can fall victim to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These unwelcome visitors can cause damage to the leaves and weaken the plant over time.

Regularly inspect your fern for signs of infestation, such as discolored spots or sticky residue on the leaves. If you do notice pests, you might need to take action with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Sometimes, a simple wash with lukewarm water can help keep pests under control. However, staying vigilant is key to preventing serious issues.

5. Prone to Fungal Issues

Fungal infections are another potential problem for royal ferns, particularly if the plant is kept in overly humid conditions without adequate air circulation. Symptoms can include yellowing leaves, black spots, or a powdery residue.

To prevent fungus, ensure your plant has enough air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If you spot any signs of fungal infection, act quickly to remove affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide if necessary. It’s all about maintaining that delicate balance between humidity and airflow.

6. Needs Ample Space

Royal ferns can grow quite large, which is fantastic if you have the space for them, but it can be a drawback if you’re short on room. These ferns can reach heights of up to six feet, making them a bold statement piece in any indoor garden.

If you live in a smaller apartment or have limited room for plants, you might find yourself struggling to accommodate a royal fern. Planning ahead for their mature size and ensuring they have room to spread out is crucial. If space is a concern, consider other ferns that have more compact growth habits.

7. Requires Regular Maintenance

Keeping a royal fern looking its best requires regular maintenance, including pruning, repotting, and soil amendments. This level of care might be overwhelming if you’re someone who prefers low-maintenance plants.

Pruning dead or damaged leaves not only keeps the plant looking tidy, but it also encourages new growth. Repotting every couple of years is necessary to provide fresh nutrients and space for the roots to grow. While this maintenance can be a labor of love, it’s not for everyone, especially if you’re juggling a busy schedule.

8. Sensitivity to Light

Royal ferns prefer bright, indirect light, which can be a bit of a Goldilocks situation—too much direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, while too little light can stunt their growth.

If you don’t have a spot with just the right lighting conditions, you might find yourself constantly moving your fern around to find its happy place. A north or east-facing window is often ideal, as it provides ample light without the harsh rays of the afternoon sun. You can also use sheer curtains to diffuse bright light if necessary.

9. Not Pet-Friendly

If you have curious pets at home, a royal fern might not be the best choice. While not toxic, the foliage can be tempting for cats and dogs to chew on, potentially leading to digestive upset.

Consider placing your fern out of reach of pets or opting for pet-friendly plant options. It’s always a good idea to research plant toxicity if you have furry friends roaming around your home. Keeping plants and pets safe can sometimes feel like a balancing act, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind.

10. Difficult to Propagate

Propagation can be a fun and rewarding part of plant care, but royal ferns can be a bit challenging to propagate. Unlike some plants that easily root from cuttings, ferns typically reproduce through spores, which is a more complicated process.

If you’re set on propagating your fern, be prepared for a bit of patience and experimentation. You’ll need to collect spores from the underside of mature leaves and provide the right conditions for them to germinate. This can be a fun project if you enjoy a challenge, but it’s not the easiest route to expand your plant collection.

11. Expensive to Buy

Royal ferns can be a bit pricey compared to more common houseplants. Their unique beauty and specific care requirements often make them a higher-end choice in plant shops.

If you’re on a budget, this might be a significant factor to consider. However, the investment can be worthwhile if you’re committed to providing the care they need. Plus, there’s always the thrill of hunting for a good deal at plant swaps or sales!

12. Temperature Sensitivity

Royal ferns prefer stable temperatures and can be sensitive to dramatic changes. Cold drafts, heat from radiators, or fluctuating temperatures near windows can stress the plant and affect its health.

To keep your fern happy, aim for a consistent temperature range of 60-75°F. Avoid placing your plant near doors, windows, or vents where it might experience sudden temperature swings. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where your fern can thrive without too much fuss.

13. Slow Growth Rate

If you’re looking for a fast-growing plant to fill a space quickly, a royal fern might not fit the bill. These ferns tend to have a slower growth rate, which can be frustrating if you’re eager to see progress.

Patience is key when it comes to growing royal ferns. While they may take their time to reach their full potential, the journey can be rewarding as you watch them transform over the years. If you’re not in a rush, this slow growth can actually be a blessing in disguise since it means less frequent repotting and maintenance.

14. Difficult to Find

Royal ferns aren't always readily available at every nursery or plant shop, which can make finding one a bit of a treasure hunt. If you have your heart set on this particular fern, you might need to do some research or even order online.

While the search can be part of the fun for plant lovers, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for immediate gratification. Be prepared to check multiple sources or even join plant trading groups to track one down. Sometimes the chase makes finally getting the plant even more satisfying!

15. Potential Allergen

While not everyone is sensitive, royal ferns can cause allergic reactions in some people. The spores they produce might trigger symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or skin irritation, particularly for those with existing allergies.

If you’re prone to allergies, it might be wise to spend some time around ferns in a public setting, like a botanical garden, before bringing one home. Alternatively, you can consult with an allergist to get a better understanding of potential triggers. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to allergens in the home.

16. Not Ideal for Beginners

Due to their specific care requirements and sensitivity to environmental changes, royal ferns might not be the best choice for new plant parents. They demand a level of attention and expertise that can be challenging for those just starting out.

If you’re new to plant care, consider starting with more forgiving species like pothos or spider plants. Once you’ve gained some confidence and experience, you might feel more prepared to tackle the challenge of a royal fern. It's okay to start small and build your skills over time.

17. Messy Spores

Royal ferns release spores as part of their natural reproductive process, which can create a bit of a mess around the plant. These tiny particles can accumulate on surfaces, leading to extra cleaning duties.

If you’re meticulous about keeping your home tidy, this might be a minor inconvenience. Regular dusting and keeping the area around your fern clean can help manage the mess. Consider placing your fern in a spot where the spores won’t be as noticeable or bothersome.

18. Limited Decorative Appeal

While beautiful, royal ferns have a specific aesthetic that might not suit everyone’s taste or home decor style. They can appear a bit wild and unruly, which might not fit in with a more minimalist or modern design approach.

If you’re looking for a plant that complements a specific design theme, consider how a royal fern might fit into your space. Sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error to find the right plant for your home’s vibe. Don’t be afraid to experiment with placement and pairings to see what works best.

19. Requires Patience and Commitment

Above all, royal ferns demand patience and commitment from their caretakers. They’re not the type of plant you can set and forget. Their specific needs mean you’ll need to stay engaged with their care over the long term.

If you’re someone who enjoys the process and finds satisfaction in nurturing plants, a royal fern can be a rewarding companion. However, if you prefer a more hands-off approach, you might want to reconsider. It’s all about finding the right balance between what a plant offers and what you’re willing to give.

Final Thoughts

Royal ferns bring a distinct beauty to any space but come with their own set of challenges. From high humidity needs to specific soil requirements, they require dedicated care and attention. Understanding these potential drawbacks can help you decide if a royal fern is the right fit for your home and lifestyle.

At Cafe Planta, we’re passionate about connecting people with the perfect plants for their homes. Whether you're looking for a royal fern or something entirely different, our plant shop offers a variety of houseplants, care accessories, and plant-themed apparel. If you have any questions or need guidance on plant care, feel free to reach out via email or Instagram. We’re here to support you on your plant journey!