Root Rot

Overwatering

To address root rot in birds nest fern, first, remove the plant from its pot and trim away any black, mushy roots, leaving only healthy, firm roots. Allow the roots to air dry before repotting in fresh, well-draining soil. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes. Going forward, water the plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid letting water accumulate in the center of the plant.

Brown and Crispy Edges

Underwatering

Birds nest ferns prefer consistently moist soil but not waterlogged conditions. To address underwatering, gradually increase watering frequency, ensuring the top inch of soil feels slightly moist to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in water by ensuring proper drainage. If your environment is particularly dry, consider increasing humidity around the plant through a pebble tray with water or a humidifier. Regularly check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly to prevent recurrence.

Scale Insects

Scale insects are small, sap-sucking pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of plants, including the bird's nest fern. They can cause yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and in severe cases, plant death.

To manage scale insects, start by manually removing them with a soft brush or cloth dipped in soapy water. For more severe infestations, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap directly to the affected areas, ensuring to cover both sides of the leaves. Repeat the treatment every 7-10 days until the infestation is under control. Always test a small area first to ensure the plant's sensitivity to the treatment.

Brown Spots on Leaves

Fungal Infection

Fungal infections in Bird's Nest Fern often result from high humidity combined with poor air circulation. To address this, ensure the plant is in a well-ventilated area and reduce humidity if excessively high. Remove affected leaves with sterilized scissors to prevent the spread of the fungus. Additionally, applying a fungicide may be necessary, but always choose one that is safe for ferns. Avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry and reduce the risk of future infections.