Growing Australian Tree Fern (Cyathea): Humidity and Care Essentials

Overview

Native to Australian forests, this fast-growing tree fern lives up to its name with dappled light or partial sun and moderate to high humidity. From spring to fall, keep soil evenly moist and apply balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. In winter, water when the top ½ inch of potting mix is dry.

Increasing Humidity

Most houseplants originate in tropical regions with high humidity and suffer in dry indoor air. The best solution is a humidifier nearby. Alternatively, set pots on trays filled with pebbles or gravel; add water to just below the pebble tops (pots must not touch water to avoid rot). Refill as water evaporates. Commercial humiditrays work similarly without pebbles.