6 Type Of Ferns That Stay Lush All Winter Long

I really like keeping my space green even when it’s freezing and gray outside.

Ferns let me do that because they bring in fresh color that doesn’t just disappear with the season.

You can enjoy ferns that stay lush all winter long without worrying about them losing their charm.

When I first started learning about ferns, I was honestly surprised by how many of them can handle the cold months.

Some are perfect for the garden, while others are happiest inside if you give them the right care.

This mix makes it easy to keep some green going, no matter where you live.

1) Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides)

I like the Christmas Fern because its green fronds stick around all year, even deep into winter. It’s a reliable choice when most of my other plants have faded.

It grows best in shaded or partly shaded spots. Once it’s settled, it barely asks for anything, which is great for me.

The fronds are dark green and leathery, and they keep standing tall through cold snaps. This fern adds some nice texture to the garden when everything else looks bare.

I usually plant it in moist, well-drained soil, and honestly, it doesn’t need much extra water. It can even help prevent soil erosion on slopes, which is a nice bonus.

The Christmas Fern looks especially fresh around the holidays, which is probably why it got its name. It gives my garden a bit of cheer when I need it most.

2) Autumn Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora)

The Autumn Fern brings color and texture even when everything else is fading. Its new fronds start out coppery or bronze, then turn a deep green, so it always feels like something’s happening.

This fern stays evergreen in mild winters, so I can count on it for steady greenery. If it loses some fronds in a harsher winter, it usually bounces back quickly once spring arrives.

It’s easy to care for and likes partial to full shade. I just make sure the soil stays moist, not soggy, and a little mulch goes a long way.

The Autumn Fern grows in a neat, clumping shape that doesn’t get out of hand. It’s perfect for smaller gardens, shaded borders, or even a container by the front door.

It’s tough once it settles in and handles different soils without much fuss. For me, it’s one of the most reliable ferns to keep things looking lively through winter.

3) Japanese Fern

The Japanese Fern brings soft color to shady corners. Its leaves have this mix of silver, green, and a bit of purple that really stands out against darker plants.

Even when it’s chilly, it keeps a fresh look that brightens up the space. It grows best in partial to full shade, so it’s perfect for those tricky spots under trees or along the north side of my house.

The soil should stay moist but well-drained, so I usually throw some mulch on top to help it hold water. This fern doesn’t get too big—usually 12 to 18 inches tall—so it’s easy to tuck into a bed or use as a border.

It also looks great in containers, where you can really appreciate the colors up close. The Japanese Fern is low-maintenance.

I trim back old fronds in early spring, and new ones pop up pretty quickly. Fertilizer? Not much needed, just a bit of compost here and there.

What I enjoy most is how it pairs with other shade plants. Next to hostas or darker ferns, those silver tones really pop.

4) Leatherleaf Fern (Rumohra adiantiformis)

The Leatherleaf Fern is a favorite because it keeps its deep green color, even when the weather turns. Its leaves are tough and shiny, so it stands out when other plants start looking tired.

It grows well in the garden or in pots. I like that it can handle different light levels, from shade to partial sun.

The fronds last a long time, which is why you see them in floral arrangements all the time. At home, that means I get to enjoy fresh-looking greenery without much effort.

It doesn’t need constant watering, either. Once it’s in well-draining soil, it’s happy with moderate care.

Because it’s hardy and adaptable, I can count on my Leatherleaf Fern to stay lush through winter. It just adds steady color and texture when most things are fading.

5) Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Boston ferns bring a fresh, green vibe to my home, even when it’s cold out. Their arching fronds stay full and bright, making them one of my favorite indoor plants for winter.

I keep mine in a spot with indirect light—direct sun can be a bit much for them. A north or east-facing window is usually just right.

To keep it happy, I make sure the soil stays slightly moist but not soggy. I check the top layer of soil and water when it feels dry.

Humidity is a big deal for this plant. I like to mist the fronds or set the pot on a tray with water and pebbles to keep the air around it a bit more humid.

When the air gets too dry in winter, the leaves sometimes turn brown at the edges. A small humidifier nearby really helps with that.

I’ll give it a light trim if the fronds start looking worn out. Cutting back old growth makes room for new, healthy leaves.

With just a little care, my Boston fern stays lush and green all season. It’s a reliable pick for winter greenery.

6) Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina)

The Lady Fern looks delicate but actually holds up well through the cold months. Its fine, lacy fronds add soft texture and brighten up shady spots in my garden.

It likes moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. As long as I don’t let the soil dry out completely, it’s pretty easy to care for.

The Lady Fern can get 2 to 3 feet tall, so it’s a nice filler among shrubs or along shaded borders. I enjoy how its light green fronds stand out against darker leaves.

It’s hardy in many climates, often surviving in spots where other ferns just give up. A little mulch for protection, and it stays green and lush even when the temperature drops.

Because it spreads slowly, I don’t have to worry about it taking over. Instead, it forms neat clumps that look tidy year after year.

How Ferns Thrive in Winter

I’ve noticed ferns stay green in the cold months when they get the right mix of light, moisture, and protection. They can handle chilly weather, but a few things really make a difference in how well they last through winter.

Key Environmental Needs

To keep my ferns healthy in winter, I focus on light, water, and humidity. Most ferns want indirect light, so I put them near a window with gentle sun.

Direct sun can scorch their fronds, especially when the air is dry. Moisture is another big deal.

I water when the top inch of soil feels dry, but I’m careful not to soak the roots. Consistent moisture without waterlogging keeps the roots happy.

Humidity drops indoors during winter. I use a small humidifier or set a tray of water with pebbles nearby.

This keeps the air moist and helps prevent those brown tips on the fronds. Temperature matters, too.

I avoid putting ferns near heating vents or drafty windows. Most types are happy between 60–75°F, which is about what most homes are anyway.

Common Winter Challenges

Ferns can run into a few problems in winter. Dry air is probably the biggest one, especially with the heat running.

Low humidity makes the fronds crisp and drop off. Overwatering is another issue.

Since plants grow slower in winter, they don’t need as much water. Too much, and the soil stays soggy—hello, root rot.

Light levels drop, too. Shorter days mean less natural light, so sometimes I use a grow light to help them out.

Pests like spider mites show up when the air’s dry. I check the fronds often and wipe them down with a damp cloth if I see anything weird.

Regular care helps keep problems from getting out of hand.

Tips for Keeping Ferns Lush Indoors

I keep my ferns looking full by watching moisture levels and being picky about where I put them. A few little changes in care can make a big difference through the winter.

Humidity and Watering Advice

Ferns really love it when the air around them is a bit damp. Dry indoor heat can turn leaves brown, so I use a humidifier or put a tray of water with pebbles under the pot to raise humidity.

I water when the top inch of soil feels dry—no set schedule. Overwatering can rot the roots, but letting the soil get bone dry stresses them out.

To keep it simple, I just check soil moisture with my finger. If it’s a little damp, I wait. If it’s dry, I water slowly until it drains out the bottom.

I also mist the leaves a few times a week, especially when the heat is on. This helps keep the fronds green and happy.

Best Placement in Your Home

My ferns do best in bright, indirect light. Direct sun is harsh, but too little light makes them lose their color.

I put mine near east- or north-facing windows for soft daylight. I avoid heaters, vents, or drafty doors.

Sudden temperature changes really stress them out, and warm air dries them fast. Bathrooms with a window are great since they’re naturally humid.

If that’s not an option, I keep them in the living room away from strong airflow and rotate them every few weeks so they grow evenly. Picking the right spot makes it way easier for ferns to stay lush without a ton of extra effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some ferns handle cold weather better than others, and a few even keep their green leaves through winter. With the right care, you can keep enjoying their fresh look indoors or out, even when it’s chilly.

What are some hardy fern varieties that can survive winter?

I’ve found that Christmas Fern and Autumn Fern do well outside in colder months. They keep their strength even when other plants fade.

How do you care for ferns during the colder months?

I usually water my ferns only when the soil actually feels dry to the touch. When the temperature drops, I’ll toss on a layer of mulch to help shield their roots a bit.

I try to make sure they’re still getting some indirect light, even if it’s just a little through a window.

Are there any ferns that can stay green throughout the entire year?

Absolutely, the Christmas Fern manages to stay green all year in a lot of places. If you’re keeping ferns indoors, the Leatherleaf Fern tends to hold its color no matter the season.

What tips can you offer for overwintering ferns indoors?

When it starts getting chilly, I move my potted ferns inside before that first frost sneaks up. I’ll set them in a bright spot, but I keep them away from any heaters—those things dry out the air fast.

I try to mist the leaves every so often, just to keep them from getting too crispy.

Can ferns withstand frost, and if so, which types?

Some ferns are surprisingly tough. The Autumn Fern and Christmas Fern can both handle a light frost or two.

They might drop a frond here or there, but the main plant usually bounces back just fine.

What should I do to prepare my outdoor ferns for the winter season?

I usually cut back damaged fronds and toss a layer of mulch over the roots.

When it starts getting really chilly, I’ll cover them with leaves or even pine needles for a little extra warmth.

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