As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can say that putting a fern in the shower is actually a great idea! Ferns are known for their ability to thrive in humid environments, making them a perfect addition to a bathroom. Not only can they tolerate the temperature fluctuations and humidity levels typically found in a bathroom, but some ferns can even be grown right in the shower stall where they will receive regular soaking.
One of the reasons ferns are well-suited for the bathroom is their unique method of reproduction. Unlike most plants that reproduce through flowers and seeds, ferns reproduce through spores. This means they don’t rely on pollinators or seeds to propagate, making them adaptable to a variety of growing conditions.
When it comes to growing a fern in the shower, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll want to choose a fern species that is well-suited for the bathroom environment. Some popular choices include the Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), the bird’s nest fern (Asplenium nidus), and the maidenhair fern (Adiantum spp.). These ferns are known for their ability to handle high humidity levels and low light conditions.
Next, you’ll need to provide the right growing conditions for your fern. While ferns can tolerate lower light levels, they still need some indirect light to thrive. Placing your fern near a window or providing artificial lighting can help ensure it receives enough light to grow. Additionally, ferns prefer well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. In the shower, the regular misting and occasional soaking will provide the necessary moisture for your fern to thrive.
To care for your fern in the shower, make sure to mist it regularly to maintain the humidity levels it requires. You can also place a tray of water nearby to help increase the humidity around the plant. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, but also be careful not to overwater and create waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
When it comes to fertilizing, ferns generally don’t require a lot of nutrients. A balanced, diluted fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilizing.
In my personal experience, I have successfully grown ferns in my bathroom for many years. I have a hanging Boston fern that I regularly mist and soak in the shower, and it has thrived in this environment. The bathroom provides the perfect combination of humidity and indirect light for the fern to flourish.
To summarize, ferns are a unique family of plants that can handle the temperature fluctuations and humidity levels typically found in a bathroom. Some ferns can even be grown right in the shower stall where they will receive regular soaking. Choose a fern species that is well-suited for the bathroom environment, provide the right growing conditions, and don’t forget to mist and water your fern regularly. With proper care, your fern can thrive in the shower and add a touch of greenery to your bathroom.
