Light
In their native environment, lemon button ferns grow as understory plants and are accustomed to indirect light conditions. When grown indoors, they grow best in medium, indirect light but can also tolerate low light or bright light conditions. However, never place your lemon button fern in direct sun as it will burn the delicate leaves.
Soil
Lemon button ferns thrive in acidic soil that is moist, loamy, and well-draining. That being said, these ferns are highly adaptable and can do well in a variety of soil conditions. For the most part, a standard houseplant soil is perfect for these little ferns.
Water
As with most ferns, the lemon button fern should never be allowed to fully dry out. Water your fern at least once a week to ensure that the soil stays consistently moist. While these ferns appreciate consistent moisture, never waterlog the soil as it can lead to root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
These ferns prefer warm, humid conditions. For the most part, typical household temperature and humidity levels should be fine for lemon button ferns, although if your house is particularly dry your fern will appreciate some added moisture. Try placing your lemon button fern near a small humidifier or in a high-humidity room like the bathroom or kitchen.
Fertilizer
Ferns are generally light feeders and the lemon button fern is no exception. Apply a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength every few months during the growing season.
Pruning
Due to their compact size, lemon button ferns do not require any aggressive pruning to keep them happy and healthy. However, it is normal for some fronds to die off throughout the year—especially in the fall and winter months—and removing these dead fronds will help to keep the plant tidy and make space for new ones. Use a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to remove browning or dead fronds by making clean cuts near the base of each frond.
Propagating Lemon Button Ferns
Lemon button ferns grow from rhizomes, which means they propagate easily by division. Dividing a healthy lemon button fern is a great way to create new plants and manage the size of your existing fern. Propagating by division is a relatively simple process that can be completed in just a few steps:
Common Problems With Lemon Button Ferns
Brown Crispy Fronds
Fronds that turn brown and crispy are an indication that your lemon button fern is not receiving enough water and humidity. Ensure that you are watering your plant regularly, and try providing extra humidity using a pebble tray or humidifier.
Wilting Leaves
Wilting leaves can be an indication of two separate problems: too much sun, or overwatering. If the wilting leaves are accompanied by mushy stems, the culprit is likely overwatering, otherwise you may be looking at sun damage.
Leaves Turning Yellow
Yellowing leaves can also be an indication of either too much sun or too much water. Ensure that your plant is not in a location that receives direct sun, and never saturate the soil during watering.
