Cretan brake fern care: watering, light and repotting
Also called pteris, ribbon fern · Pteris cretica · Pteridaceae family
7 d in winter
How often to water the Cretan brake fern?
Allow about 4 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 7 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Keep the soil moist at all times. It copes with dry air better than most ferns.
Misting every 3 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The Cretan brake fern is happy in a dim room, away from windows or facing north. It grows more slowly there, but copes well; above all, avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 1–1.5 ft (30–50 cm).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Brown, dry fronds
Cause: Dried-out root ball. What to do: Cut off the dry fronds and water more often.
Pale foliage
Cause: Too much light. What to do: Move it away from the window.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the Cretan brake fern?
About every 4 days in spring and summer, and every 7 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the Cretan brake fern?
The Cretan brake fern is happy in a dim room, away from windows or facing north. It grows more slowly there, but copes well; above all, avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves.
Should you mist the Cretan brake fern?
Yes, misting every 3 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the Cretan brake fern?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the Cretan brake fern safe?
The Cretan brake fern is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. A pet that eats a lot of it may still vomit, so it's best not to let it nibble.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the Cretan brake fern needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.