---
title: How to grow ferns from seed (spores)
description: Learn how to grow ferns from spores with this step-by-step guide. Discover tips for success, common issues, and ideal conditions for thriving ferns.
---

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## ![5 step guide to growing ferns from sporesStep 1 Prepare a sterile growing mediumUse fine sterile compost importantSome growers microwave or bake compo-1](https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/hs-fs/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/5%20step%20guide%20to%20growing%20ferns%20from%20sporesStep%201%20Prepare%20a%20sterile%20growing%20mediumUse%20fine%20sterile%20compost%20importantSome%20growers%20microwave%20or%20bake%20compo-1.png?width=1024&height=1536&name=5%20step%20guide%20to%20growing%20ferns%20from%20sporesStep%201%20Prepare%20a%20sterile%20growing%20mediumUse%20fine%20sterile%20compost%20importantSome%20growers%20microwave%20or%20bake%20compo-1.png)

## How to grow ferns from seed (spores)

Ferns don’t grow from seeds in the usual sense — they grow from **spores**. That makes them slower and more delicate to start, but not difficult if you follow the process.

This is more about patience and hygiene than anything else.

## Quick answer: how to grow ferns from spores

Sow fern spores on the surface of sterile, moist compost, keep them covered and humid, and place in bright, indirect light. They develop slowly, first as a green film, then into small plants over several weeks or months.

## 5 step guide to growing ferns from spores

Step 1: Prepare a sterile growing medium

- Use **fine, sterile compost** (important)
- Some growers microwave or bake compost to sterilise it
- Firm lightly and moisten before sowing

Step 2: Sow spores on the surface

- Sprinkle spores very thinly (they’re dust-like)
- Do not cover — they need light
- Less is more here

Step 3: Seal and create humidity

- Cover with a **clear lid or plastic**
- Keep humidity high at all times
- Do not let the surface dry out

Step 4: Provide stable conditions

- Place in **bright, indirect light**
- Keep warm (around 18–22°C)
- Avoid direct sunlight

Step 5: Be patient and grow on

- First stage looks like a **green film (prothallus)**
- Small fern plants appear later
- Transplant once large enough to handle

## Best varieties & why

- Boston fern (Nephrolepis) 
    - Common and relatively forgiving
    - Good for beginners
- Maidenhair fern (Adiantum) 
    - Beautiful but slower and more delicate
- Tree ferns 
    - Slow-growing but impressive long-term
- Asplenium (bird’s nest fern) 
    - Easier to grow indoors

Start with Boston or Asplenium — they’re far more forgiving.

## Common issues, pests & diseases

No growth at all

- Cause: spores dried out or poor conditions
- Fix: maintain constant humidity

Mould or contamination

- Cause: unsterile compost or containers
- Fix: improve hygiene
- If you’re seeing mould, click here: [https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/why-mould-appears-during-seed-germination](https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/why-mould-appears-during-seed-germination?hsLang=en)

Seedlings collapsing

- Cause: fungal issues
- Fix: reduce moisture slightly and improve airflow
- This guide will help: [https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/how-to-prevent-damping-off-in-seedlings](https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/how-to-prevent-damping-off-in-seedlings?hsLang=en)

## Best fertiliser, soil, lighting & growing conditions

- Light 
    - Bright, indirect light
- Soil 
    - Fine, sterile, moisture-retentive compost
- Water 
    - Constant moisture, but not waterlogged
- Humidity 
    - High humidity is essential
- Feeding 
    - Minimal early on

Ferns need stability — not fluctuation.

## Time of year

- Best started in **spring or early summer**
- Warmer temperatures improve success
- Can be done year-round indoors if conditions are stable

## Climate and regional notes

UK & Ireland

- Indoor growing recommended
- Humidity is easier to maintain indoors

Europe

- Northern regions similar to UK
- Southern regions may need shade and moisture control

USA

- Indoor propagation works best
- Outdoor success depends on humidity levels

## Pro tips for better success

- Always prioritise cleanliness — contamination ruins batches
- Don’t open containers too early
- Label everything clearly
- Expect slow progress — weeks to months
- Treat it like a controlled environment, not normal seed sowing

## 10 frequently asked questions about growing ferns from spores

**Are fern spores the same as seeds**  
No — they are much smaller and behave differently.

**How long do ferns take to grow from spores**  
Several weeks to months before plants appear.

**Why is nothing happening after sowing**  
Likely conditions are too dry or too cold.

**Do fern spores need light to germinate**  
Yes, they should not be covered.

**Can I grow ferns from spores indoors**  
Yes, this is the best method.

**Why is there green film but no plants**  
This is normal — it’s the first stage of growth.

**Can I use normal compost**  
Not recommended — sterilised compost works best.

**How often should I water**  
Keep consistently moist — never let dry out.

**When can I transplant ferns**  
Once small plants have formed and are large enough to handle.

**Is growing ferns from spores difficult**  
Not difficult — just slower and more precise than normal seeds.

## Related guides

- If you’re struggling with moisture control, read this: https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/how-often-to-water-seeds-during-germination
- Your soil setup matters more than you think — click here: https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/best-soil-mix-for-seed-germination
- If mould keeps appearing, fix it here: [https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/why-mould-appears-during-seed-germination](https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/why-mould-appears-during-seed-germination?hsLang=en)

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