Are these spots a disease?

They are often fungal, caused by wet leaves or poor air circulation. Keep the foliage dry to prevent them.

Should I cut off the spotted fronds?

Yes, trimming them helps the plant focus energy on healthy growth. Use clean, sharp shears.

Why are there spots on my New York fern? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for tiny insects on the underside of the leaves.
Check if the spots are soft or dry.
Ensure the plant is not in direct sunlight.

Likely causes

Fungal Leaf Spot
Possible
How to tell: Small, dark, or water soaked spots appear on the fronds, often with a yellow halo. These spots may grow larger if the foliage stays wet for too long.
What to do: Remove the affected fronds immediately to stop the spread. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves when you water.
Sun Scorch
Possible
How to tell: Brown or bleached spots appear on the fronds that receive the most light. The spots look dry and brittle rather than soft or mushy.
What to do: Move the fern to a shadier location. New York ferns prefer partial to full shade and will burn in direct sunlight.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your new york 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 spots are spreading rapidly across all fronds, you need to act quickly. It is normal to see small brown marks on very old fronds that are nearing the end of their life.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant rather than over the top of the foliage. Keep the plant in a spot with good airflow to prevent fungal growth.

New York fern: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your new york fern and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Are these spots a disease?: They are often fungal, caused by wet leaves or poor air circulation. Keep the foliage dry to prevent them.
Should I cut off the spotted fronds?: Yes, trimming them helps the plant focus energy on healthy growth. Use clean, sharp shears.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why are there spots on my New York fern?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your new york fern?