19 Disadvantages of Sword Ferns You Should Know About

Ah, sword ferns! These elegant plants have long been a favorite for adding a touch of green to our homes. But like every coin has two sides, sword ferns come with their own set of challenges. If you're considering bringing one of these leafy beauties into your space, it's important to be aware of the potential downsides.

In this post, we'll take a closer look at 19 disadvantages of sword ferns. You'll find practical insights and tips for managing these challenges, ensuring that you're well-prepared to tackle any issues that come your way.

1. High Humidity Requirements

Sword ferns thrive in environments with high humidity, which can be tricky to maintain indoors. They prefer a moisture-rich atmosphere similar to their natural habitat in the forest understory. If you live in a dry climate or have your heating on full blast during winter, keeping the air humid enough for your fern can be a hassle.

How can you tackle this? Well, you might want to consider investing in a humidifier. It's a godsend for not just your fern, but also your skin! Alternatively, regular misting can help, though it requires a bit more commitment. You could also place your fern on a tray filled with water and pebbles to increase the immediate humidity around the plant.

2. Sensitive to Direct Sunlight

Sword ferns aren't fans of direct sunlight. Too much sun can scorch their leaves, leaving them brown and crispy. This means you'll need to find a spot with indirect light, which can be a bit of a juggling act if your home is flooded with natural light.

An ideal spot might be near a north or east-facing window. If that's not possible, using sheer curtains to diffuse harsh sunlight can also work wonders. Just make sure not to place them in a dark corner either, as they do need some light to thrive.

3. Prone to Pests

Like many houseplants, sword ferns can attract pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These little critters can wreak havoc if not addressed quickly, damaging the leaves and potentially spreading to other plants in your collection.

Regular inspection is your best defense. Check the underside of the leaves for any signs of unwelcome guests. If you do spot something, a gentle spray with insecticidal soap or a homemade solution of water and dish soap can do the trick. Just remember to rinse the leaves afterward to avoid any residue build-up.

4. Frequent Watering Needs

Watering is another area where sword ferns can be a bit demanding. They prefer consistently moist soil, but overwatering can lead to root rot—a common plant-keeping conundrum. Striking the right balance can take time and patience.

A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. If you're prone to forgetting, setting a reminder on your phone might be helpful. And don't forget about drainage! Ensuring your pot has adequate drainage holes will prevent water from pooling at the bottom.

5. Shedding Leaves

Sword ferns are known for shedding their leaves, especially in lower light or less-than-ideal conditions. This can make them appear messy and may discourage some plant parents who prefer low-maintenance greenery.

Regular pruning of dead or yellowing leaves will keep your fern looking its best. It also promotes new growth, so it's a win-win! Plus, a little shedding is normal and doesn't necessarily mean your plant is in distress.

6. Space Requirements

Sword ferns can grow quite large, which means they require ample space to spread out. If you're living in a small apartment or have limited room, accommodating a full-grown sword fern might be tricky.

Consider starting with a smaller plant and repotting as it grows. Alternatively, hanging baskets can be a great way to display your fern without taking up precious floor space.

7. Temperature Sensitivity

These ferns prefer cooler temperatures, typically between 60-75°F (15-24°C). They don't do well with sudden temperature fluctuations or drafts, which can be a challenge in certain homes.

Make sure your fern is placed away from heating vents or drafty windows. Keeping a consistent temperature will help your plant stay healthy and happy.

8. Difficult to Propagate

If you're someone who loves propagating plants, you might find sword ferns a bit disappointing. They can be tricky to propagate compared to other houseplants, often requiring division rather than the simpler methods like leaf cuttings.

When dividing a sword fern, ensure each section has a good amount of roots. It's a delicate process, but with patience, you can successfully create new plants. Just be prepared for a bit of trial and error.

9. Not Pet-Friendly

Sword ferns are toxic to pets if ingested, which is a crucial consideration for households with curious cats or dogs. While they might not be as harmful as some other plants, it's still best to keep them out of reach.

If you're worried about your furry friends, consider placing your fern in a hanging basket or on a high shelf. This way, you can enjoy your plant without worrying about your pet's safety.

10. Fertilization Needs

While not excessive, sword ferns do benefit from regular feeding during the growing season. This means adding yet another task to your plant care routine, which might not be appealing to everyone.

A balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every month or so can support healthy growth. Just be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can harm your plant's roots.

11. Soil Requirements

Sword ferns prefer rich, well-draining soil, which might require a bit of experimentation to get right. Standard potting soil often doesn't cut it, and you may need to amend it with additional peat moss or compost.

Creating your own mix ensures your fern's roots have the ideal environment to thrive. Though it requires a bit of effort, the results are worth it in the long run.

12. Limited Availability

Depending on where you live, sword ferns might not be readily available at local nurseries or plant shops. This can make it challenging to find a healthy specimen to start with.

Online plant shops can be a great resource, but be sure to check reviews and ensure the seller has a good reputation. It's always a gamble when ordering plants online, but many people have great success stories.

13. Slow Growth

Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to sword ferns. They tend to grow slowly, which can be frustrating if you're eager to see your plant flourish.

Focus on providing optimal care and conditions, and remember that good things take time. Enjoy the journey and celebrate the small victories, like a new leaf unfurling!

14. Seasonal Dormancy

During the winter months, sword ferns can enter a period of dormancy, where growth slows down significantly. This is perfectly normal, but it can be disheartening if you're not expecting it.

Reduce watering and fertilization during this time, and be patient. Come spring, your fern will likely bounce back with renewed vigor.

15. Vulnerability to Fungal Infections

Sword ferns are susceptible to fungal infections, particularly if they're kept too wet. This can lead to root rot or unsightly spots on the leaves, which can be a headache to deal with.

Ensure your plant is in well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering. If you notice signs of fungal infection, consider using a fungicide or removing affected leaves to prevent the spread.

16. Limited Tolerance to Low Light

While sword ferns can tolerate low light better than some plants, they don't thrive in it. If your home doesn't get much natural light, you might struggle to keep your fern healthy.

Supplementing with a grow light can make a big difference. These lights mimic the sun's natural spectrum and can help your fern get the energy it needs.

17. Fragile Leaf Structure

The delicate leaves of sword ferns can be easily damaged through handling or accidental bumps. This fragility means you'll need to be extra careful when moving the plant or performing routine care tasks.

Try to handle your fern as little as possible, and be gentle when you do. Avoid placing it in high-traffic areas where it might get knocked over.

18. Limited Resilience to Neglect

If you're a forgetful plant parent, sword ferns might not be the best choice. They require regular attention and can decline quickly if neglected.

Setting reminders for watering and care tasks can help you stay on top of things. And remember, it's okay to ask for help if you're going on vacation—getting a plant sitter is a great option!

19. Potential for Allergic Reactions

Some people may experience allergic reactions to sword ferns, particularly if they're sensitive to plant spores. This can cause discomfort, especially during the plant's spore-releasing season.

If you're prone to allergies, consider placing your fern in a less frequented area of your home. Alternatively, you might opt for a different plant that doesn't release spores.

Final Thoughts

Sword ferns, while beautiful, come with their share of challenges. From humidity needs to pest troubles, these plants require a bit more attention than some other houseplants. But with the right care and a little patience, they can be a rewarding addition to your green space.

At Cafe Planta, we understand the joys and challenges of plant care. Whether you're looking for a new addition to your collection or need advice on nurturing your current plants, we're here to help. Feel free to email us with your questions or connect with us on Instagram. Happy planting!