---
title: "Got this Boston Fern from an old couple on marketplace. They have…"
description: "Got this Boston Fern from an old couple on marketplace. They have been growing this for 10 years. Its huge. It was much larger and fuller. I added a humidifier…"
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/NiZALrtASBeROEC20lQA3w/2zCH93pC3Ck07YnYJ1MUlZ"
community: "Fern Friends"
author: "Manu"
published: "2026-03-18T17:52:50.234895Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/tsXRhGnJtcx0uUSYv6Ew113vy3yMZHjOTUD5A1Lu_y8/-Utt6KFJRr6LdpvoBcFfIg.webp?size=large"
---

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# Got this Boston Fern from an old couple on marketplace. They have…

_Posted by Manu on 2026-03-18_

Got this Boston Fern from an old couple on marketplace. They have been growing this for 10 years. Its huge. It was much larger and fuller. I added a humidifier and consistently water. But it has excessive shedding and leaves are brittle. The pot is huge. I do not want to repot it. Could I fix this and not let it die? I feel horrible.

I will be moving it to my balcony come late April when temperatures are better.

![Attachment 1 of 2](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/tsXRhGnJtcx0uUSYv6Ew113vy3yMZHjOTUD5A1Lu_y8/-Utt6KFJRr6LdpvoBcFfIg.webp?size=large)

![Attachment 2 of 2](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/tsXRhGnJtcx0uUSYv6Ew113vy3yMZHjOTUD5A1Lu_y8/oV_AKhnZRyiDWG7HB0eyaA.webp?size=large)

## 4 comments

### Amy commented on 2026-03-19

It’s a lovely plant. More moisture should help. A soil refresh would not hurt either

### Day commented on 2026-03-19

humidity and moist soil but not soaked is crucial. trim off all dead foliage and ensure it has a good humidifier! that humidifier is probably too small to create a good amount of humidity.

### Day commented on 2026-03-19

Also make sure you’re giving it bright indirect light. too much burns leaves and they hate it! rich, light, and airy potting mix that retains moisture while allowing for excellent drainage is best. A peat-based mixture is ideal, typically consisting of 50% potting soil, 20-30% peat moss, and 20% perlite, with optional amendments like orchid bark or compost

### Syd commented on 2026-04-04

I use a mix of 70% potting soil, 15% perlite, and 15% orchid bark. I have it on my balcony with indirect light and it thrives with minimal maintenance

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