Avoid This Surprising Mistake That Can Kill Your Maidenhair Fern

There she is — the magnificent maidenhair fern (Adiantum raddianum) — practically luminescent among the shelves of the plant nursery. With the slightest breeze, her fronds quiver, drawing attention to her delicate foliage. You can't resist, so you pick out the fullest, lushest one of the bunch. Congratulations, you've just bought yourself a diva.

Although maidenhair ferns are among the list of 15 ferns that could make the perfect houseplant, that doesn't mean they're low-maintenance. In fact, it's the exact opposite. Just like how Beyonce needs her dressing room to be an exact 78 degrees Fahrenheit and Rihanna wants only animal print throw pillows, the maidenhair fern prefers its own white-glove treatment.

An unexpected and surprising demand of this flora diva is that, as much as you want to run your fingers through its delicate leaves, it doesn't want to be touched — and for good reason. Touching them transfers the natural oils from our hands onto their leaves. These ferns are so sensitive that our oils block the leaves from soaking in moisture and light, resulting in shriveled brown fronds. If you do need to touch its foliage, wear lightweight gloves. You may roll your eyes, but you'll be grateful when your fern thrives.

Another top tip for keeping your maidenhair fern healthy is to recreate its natural environment. Shady woodlands, where these ferns are often found, are typically damp, which means your maidenhair fern needs its soil to be consistently moist. The plant will throw a fit (in true diva form) if you're not keeping it sufficiently damp. Its leaves will become dry and wilted. In addition to constantly monitoring its soil, keep the fern in a plastic pot, rather than a terracotta one, which will too quickly soak up moisture from the soil. Misting also will help with the plant's need for moisture and humidity. At the same time, avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other problems. If this happens, here's how to revive an overwatered fern.

While we often gravitate toward putting our plants in the sunniest spots, think again about the fern's natural habitat — and the diva mentality. Intense direct sunlight will scorch its fronds, but it won't survive in a dark corner, either. Look for a spot that receives bright indirect light, ideally away from an air vent or frequently open window, which can quickly dry out the soil. If you're not sure where to situate this picky plant, here are some of the best places to hang your ferns for maximum growth.