Indoor Plant Hacks: Is It Possible a Clear Bag Rescue a Drooping Fern?

The Issue

Few plants challenge a gardener's patience as much as ferns. One day they’re full of life; soon after they appear like dry brush left on a heater. Fern leaves crisp up at the first hint of dry air, and after they turn brown, most think it’s the end.

This Trick

Put the fern inside a clear plastic bag – but leave it open as it still needs some airflow – and set it in filtered yet ample light.

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The Theory

The bag forms a mini terrarium, capturing humidity near the plant. Consider it recreating the tropical environment – the humid microclimate where ferns flourish. It doesn’t water the plant for you, but it drastically slows down moisture loss and promotes fragile new fronds to open up.

This Test

I tried this technique on a Boston fern that looked past recovery. After 10 days in its humid enclosure the potting medium was moist to the touch and tiny new shoots started emerging. By the end of the month, the plant was noticeably fuller and greener.

This Verdict

This isn’t a instant solution and you may lose some fronds along the way, but the plastic bag method can truly rescue a fern near death. At no expense, it’s one of the most successful revival techniques out there.