Brake Fern (Table Fern) Care: Tough & Adaptable

Why It's Called Table Fern

Pteris cretica adapts to average indoor conditions better than most ferns. Varieties offer frilly tips, creamy or silvery stripes—all attractive accents.

Care Essentials

• Light: Moderate to bright indirect. Thrives under fluorescents. Not for dark corners.
• Water: Keep mix lightly moist. Less water than rainforest ferns—don’t overwater.
• Humidity: Prefers moist air. Pebble tray + misting in winter.
• Temp: Cool nights (50–55°F), warm days (60–70°F).
• Soil: Good potting mix + perlite for drainage.
• Fertilizer: Monthly spring–fall, half-strength balanced.

Maintenance

• Repot only when needed (slow-growing, likes being pot-bound). Keep crown above soil.
• Trim tall fronds at base to keep compact.
• Propagation: Division in spring when crowded (rare).

A fuss-free fern for bright spots.