How do I know if the roots are healthy?

Healthy roots are firm and light tan or white. If they are dark, slimy, or fall apart when touched, they are rotting.

Should I let the soil dry out completely?

No, this fern loves damp soil. Let the top inch of soil feel slightly less wet before watering again, but never let the whole pot dry out.

Why is my Golden leather fern wilting? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
Check if the pot has working drainage holes.
Touch the soil to see if it is waterlogged.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly soggy and the fronds turn yellow or mushy at the base. You might notice a sour or swampy smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any black, mushy roots with sterilized scissors. Repot the fern into fresh, well draining soil and reduce your watering frequency.
Poor drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water sits at the bottom of the pot or the soil stays wet for more than 4 days. The fern looks droopy even though the soil is saturated.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Add perlite or coarse sand to your potting mix to improve airflow around the roots.

Find out what's wrong with your golden leather fern

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the base of the fronds turns black and mushy, the rot is advanced. If only a few tips are affected, you can often save the plant by adjusting your care.

Stopping it coming back

Always empty the saucer after watering so the plant never sits in standing water. Use a light, airy soil mix that holds moisture but allows excess water to escape.

Keep your golden leather fern healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

How do I know if the roots are healthy?: Healthy roots are firm and light tan or white. If they are dark, slimy, or fall apart when touched, they are rotting.
Should I let the soil dry out completely?: No, this fern loves damp soil. Let the top inch of soil feel slightly less wet before watering again, but never let the whole pot dry out.

Why is my Golden leather fern wilting?