How To Save A Sunburnt Sword Fern

It's a sad sight when your once-vibrant sword fern starts to look a little worse for wear, especially when those lovely green leaves turn brown and crispy due to sunburn. But don't worry—your sunburnt sword fern isn't beyond hope. With a bit of TLC and some smart adjustments, you'll have it thriving again in no time.

In this article, we'll explore how to rescue your sunburnt sword fern from its crispy fate. We'll cover recognizing the signs of sunburn, adjusting its living conditions, and executing a proper care routine to restore its lushness. So, let's dig in and help your fern bounce back to life!

Spotting the Signs of Sunburn in Sword Ferns

Before you can treat a sunburnt sword fern, you need to know what you're looking at. Sunburn in these ferns can be sneaky, often starting small before spreading if not addressed. So, how do you know if your fern is sunburnt?

The first sign is discoloration. Those beautiful green leaves might turn a crispy brown, particularly at the tips and edges. You might also notice some yellowing, indicating stress. Another telltale sign is curling or drooping leaves. These symptoms, coupled with a dry texture, often point to sunburn.

If you're unsure, consider where your fern is placed. Is it in direct sunlight for a significant portion of the day? Sword ferns prefer indirect light, so direct exposure often leads to sunburn. Think of it like us humans—we enjoy the sun, but too much can lead to a sunburned nose or shoulders!

Once you've identified sunburn as the issue, you'll know it's time to take action. The good news is, with some adjustments, your fern can recover beautifully. So, let's move on to the next steps to nurse your plant back to health.

Relocating Your Fern to a Better Spot

The location of your fern plays a crucial role in its health. If it's sunburnt, the first step is to move it to a more suitable spot. Sword ferns thrive in indirect light, so finding a shady area is key.

Consider placing your fern in a spot where it gets filtered light. This could be near a window with a sheer curtain or in an area that receives dappled sunlight. Avoid placing it too far from light sources, though, as these plants still need light to photosynthesize.

If you're working with limited space, try rotating the plant every few days so all sides receive equal light. This method prevents one side from getting too much sun while the other side languishes in the shade. It's like giving your plant a little spin dance to ensure it gets the light it loves!

Remember, each home is different, and finding the perfect spot might take some trial and error. Pay attention to how your fern responds over a week or two, and adjust its position as necessary.

Watering Wisely: Not Too Much, Not Too Little

Watering a sunburnt sword fern requires a delicate balance. Overwatering or underwatering can both exacerbate the problem, so it's essential to get it just right.

Sword ferns like their soil to be consistently moist, but not soggy. When the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, it's time to water. Use a watering can with a spout to direct water to the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves to prevent fungal issues. Consider this a little hydration spa for your fern!

If you're unsure whether the soil is moist enough, try the finger test. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, your fern could use a drink. If it's still damp, hold off for a day or two.

Be mindful of the season, too. Ferns typically need less water in the cooler months, as they aren't growing as actively. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly to keep your fern healthy all year round.

Reevaluating the Soil and Potting Situation

Sometimes, the soil and potting situation can contribute to your fern's sunburn woes. If the soil isn't draining well, or if the pot is too small, your fern might be stressed, making it more susceptible to sunburn.

Check the soil first. Sword ferns prefer a well-draining potting mix. If the soil is compacted or retaining too much water, consider repotting your fern into fresh soil that includes peat moss or perlite for improved drainage. It's like giving your fern a new outfit that fits just right!

Don't forget to assess the pot size. A pot that's too small can restrict root growth, leading to stress. If your fern has outgrown its current pot, it might be time to size up. Choose a pot that's one or two inches larger in diameter to give your roots some breathing room.

When repotting, gently remove the fern from its current pot and shake off excess soil. Check the roots for any signs of rot or damage, and trim any unhealthy parts. Then, place it in its new home with fresh soil, and give it a good drink to help it settle in.

Trimming the Damaged Leaves

Once you've adjusted light, water, and soil, it's time to trim away the damaged leaves. This might seem like a drastic step, but removing the sunburnt parts can actually help the plant redirect energy to new growth.

Use a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to trim off the brown, crispy leaves. Cut them close to the base, but be careful not to damage the healthy parts of the plant. It's a bit like giving your fern a haircut—satisfying and beneficial!

Don't worry if you're left with a plant that looks a bit sparse. Sword ferns are resilient and, with proper care, will grow back fuller and healthier. Just keep up with the care routine, and you'll see new fronds emerging in no time.

Also, keep an eye on the freshly trimmed plant for a week or so. If new leaves start to show signs of sunburn, revisit the lighting and watering conditions to ensure they're just right.

Feeding Your Fern: A Little Boost of Nutrition

Feeding your sword fern with the right nutrients can give it a much-needed boost, especially after a sunburn incident. But, just like with watering, you don't want to overdo it.

Opt for a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, and apply it once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Think of it like offering your plant a nutritious snack to help it recover!

Be cautious not to fertilize in the fall and winter when the plant's growth slows down. Over-fertilizing during these months can lead to nutrient burn, which is the last thing your recovering fern needs.

As with any plant care routine, keep an eye on how your fern responds to the fertilizer. If you notice any negative effects, such as yellowing leaves, reduce the frequency or concentration of the fertilizer.

Monitoring Humidity Levels

Sword ferns hail from humid environments, so maintaining adequate humidity levels is vital to their health. If your home is on the dry side, this could be contributing to your fern's sunburn issues.

Consider using a humidity tray or a humidifier to boost the moisture in the air. A humidity tray is simple to make: just fill a shallow tray with pebbles and water, and place your fern's pot on top. As the water evaporates, it increases humidity around the plant. It's like creating a mini rainforest for your fern!

If a humidifier isn't an option, misting the leaves with water a few times a week can also help. Be sure to do this in the morning so the leaves have time to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of fungal issues.

It's also worth noting that grouping your plants together can increase humidity naturally, as they release moisture into the air through transpiration. So don't be afraid to create a little plant community!

Keeping an Eye Out for Pests

Pests can be another stressor for your sword fern, making it more vulnerable to sunburn. Common culprits include spider mites and aphids, which can be especially problematic in dry conditions.

Check the leaves regularly for any signs of pests, such as tiny webs or sticky residue. If you spot any unwanted visitors, address the issue promptly. A gentle spray with a mixture of water and mild soap can often do the trick, or consider using neem oil for a more natural solution.

Maintaining a healthy environment for your fern—adequate humidity, proper light, and regular watering—can also help deter pests from taking up residence. Think of it as creating an inhospitable environment for those pesky critters!

Remember, prevention is key. By keeping your fern healthy and stress-free, you'll reduce the likelihood of pests causing trouble.

Establishing a Routine and Being Patient

Once you've made all these changes, the last step is to establish a consistent care routine for your sword fern. Regular watering, feeding, and monitoring will help your plant regain its health over time.

Try to check on your fern daily, even if it's just a quick glance to see how it's doing. Consistency is crucial, as plants thrive on routine. Consider setting a reminder on your phone to help you remember key care tasks.

Finally, be patient. Recovery won't happen overnight, but with time and care, your sword fern will bounce back. Remember, plants are resilient, and with your help, this fern will return to its former glory, ready to brighten up your space with its lush greenery.

Final Thoughts

Rescuing a sunburnt sword fern involves recognizing the signs, adjusting its environment, and maintaining a consistent care routine. By following these steps, you can help your fern recover and flourish once again.

At Cafe Planta, we love helping fellow plant lovers care for their green companions. Whether you need advice or are looking for new additions to your collection, we're here for you. Feel free to email us, or reach out on Instagram. Let's grow together!