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The Problem

Few greenery test a gardener's patience like ferns. One day they’re full of life; soon after they look similar to tumbleweed forgotten on a heater. Fern fronds dry out at the first hint of low humidity, and after they become discolored, many assume it’s game over.

This Trick

Place the fern within a transparent bag – however leave it open as it still needs air circulation – and set it in filtered yet ample light.

Houseplant Clinic: why is there a white layer on my plant’s soil?

This Explanation

This method forms a small greenhouse, trapping moisture around the plant. Consider it recreating the rainforest atmosphere – the moist mini-environment where ferns flourish. This won't water the plant for you, but it significantly reduces evaporation and promotes delicate young leaves to unfurl.

This Experiment

I used this trick on a Boston fern that looked beyond saving. Following a week and a half in its misty cocoon the potting medium was still damp and tiny new shoots began to appear. By the end of the month, the plant was noticeably thicker and greener.

This Conclusion

This isn’t a miracle cure and some fronds might drop some fronds along the way, but the bag trick can truly save a fern near death. At no expense, it’s one of the most successful resuscitation methods available.