Ferns are becoming increasingly popular in the urban gardening world due to their low-maintenance requirements and versatility, experts in the field have said. Ferns are ideal for busy city dwellers who want to enjoy the benefits of having plants in their homes without having to commit too much time and energy to their care. Additionally, ferns come in a range of shapes and sizes, grow in a variety of light conditions, help maintain good air quality, and are affordable to boot. Ferns have become the darlings of the urban gardening scene, with their popularity continuing to rise.
Ferns Are the Latest Trend in Urban Gardening: Experts Weigh In
Urban gardening has taken off in a big way over the past few years, with people from all walks of life embracing the benefits of growing their own fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants in their homes and communities. And while tomatoes, herbs, and succulents have long been the darlings of the urban gardening scene, there’s a new trend on the rise: ferns.
According to Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, a horticulturist and author who blogs at The Houseplant Guru, ferns are having a moment in the urban gardening world. “Ferns have always been popular, but I think they’re becoming more so because people are looking for plants that are low-maintenance and can tolerate a wide range of indoor conditions,” says Steinkopf.
But why are ferns so well-suited to urban gardening? We talked to a few experts to find out.
Ferns are low-maintenance
One of the biggest selling points of ferns is that they require very little care. “Ferns are pretty forgiving,” says Steinkopf. “They can tolerate some neglect and will bounce back if you forget to water them for a few days.”
This makes them ideal for busy urbanites who want to enjoy the benefits of having plants in their homes without having to devote too much time and energy to their care.
Ferns are versatile
Another factor that makes ferns a great choice for urban gardening is their versatility. “Ferns come in all shapes and sizes,” says Steinkopf. “There are ferns that grow tall and spiky, while others have softer, more delicate fronds. Some prefer bright, indirect light, while others thrive in lower light environments.”
This means that no matter what your space or light situation, there’s a fern that will work for you.
Ferns are good for air quality
Ferns aren’t just pretty to look at—they’re also great for improving air quality. “Ferns are known for their air-purifying properties,” says Steinkopf. “They can remove toxins like formaldehyde and xylene from the air, which is especially important in urban environments where air pollution can be a problem.”
Ferns are affordable
Finally, ferns are an affordable choice for urban gardeners. “You can find ferns at any garden center or even at big box stores,” says Steinkopf. “And because they’re low-maintenance, you don’t have to keep spending money on fertilizer or special soil amendments.”
Overall, says Steinkopf, ferns are an excellent choice for anyone looking to add some greenery to their urban space without breaking the bank or devoting too much time to plant care. “Ferns are just really easy and really delightful,” she says.
FAQs
Are ferns good indoor plants?
Yes, ferns are great indoor plants. They’re low-maintenance and versatile, and they can help improve air quality.
Can ferns grow in low light?
Yes, many ferns can tolerate lower light conditions, which makes them ideal for indoor gardening.
How often should I water my fern?
Most ferns prefer to be kept evenly moist, so you should water them whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Do ferns need fertilizer?
Ferns don’t need fertilizer as often as some other plants, but you can give them a boost with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every few months.
Can ferns be grown in small spaces?
Yes, ferns can be grown in small containers, which makes them ideal for urban gardening. Just make sure the container has drainage holes and that you choose a fern that’s appropriate for the size of the container.
