Australian sword fern tips?

i always thot that the fern ive been struggling with was a boston fern, but it isnt. its an australian sword fern. any one have any tips on growing this type of fern full and lively? i would like it to be what i call "a hanging bush" but im stressing b/c winter is soon coming and i will have to bring it inddors. i realize that plants go into sort of a hybernation period in the winter but i dont have alot of room nor do i have a large bathroom to hang it in for the moisture. i do however own a few little humidifiers (like for a baby's room). if i put it in the basement should i still water it and how often? please help b/c it has been doing rather well outside and i fear it will die off too much indoors.


specific web sites would help too b/c ive looked all over and frankly im confused w/what steps to take.

Australian sword fern tips?
Boston Fern is more floppy looking - better for hanging baskets. Your fern has a 'crisper' look which many prefer. You treat them both the same. Ferns are some of the easiest maintenance plants around. You can just plant it in the ground or insulate the pot to protect the roots during a freeze. Freezing back is normal and in Spring you just cut it all the way back to about 2" height. It will come back stronger and bigger. Don't need a lot of water but when you do, apply water soluble fertilizer (20-10-20) every 4th-5th time. Keeps it deep green and healthy.
Reply:Link


http://ecolage.safeshopper.com/199/2484....





Copied from link above.





usda plant hardiness zones: 8b, 9, 10, 11


[enjoy indoors in colder climates]





sunset plant hardiness zones: 8-9, 12-24





mature height: 24-36"





best known for its:


. sturdy sword-like fronds


. hardy + adapatable nature


. carefree + well-mannered fast growth


. popular use in container gardening


. excellent growth indoors


. air purifying qualities





plant family + type: Polypodiaceae [Nephrolepidaceae] . tropical [pantropical] terrestrial fern





origin: Australia . the name Nephrolepis is from the Greek word nephros which describes the shape of the spore-case coverings





growth habit: evergreen in warmer climates, sturdy, extremely adaptable and vigorous, upright and compact, fast growing, spreads by stolons, maintains its proud stature in both wind and rain, considered pest-free and easy to grow - hence its popularity in both hemispheres!





foliage: long, erect, durable, dark green, small narrow dissected leaflets





preferences: bright filtered sun to partial shade [more sun tolerant than species], ample moisture, fertile, acidic, well-drained soils, morning sun only in hot climates please, mulch is appreciated if over wintering outdoors


excellent choice for: container gardening, shade inspired gardens, indoor house plant, large scale groundcover plantings, tropical inspired gardens, shady swimming pool surrounds, urban courtyards, terraces and balconies, cut greenery in flower arrangements, purifying you home and office of toxic pollutants





indoor growing tips: Provide high humidity, ample sunlight, evenly moist soil, warm temperatures, and adequate air circulation, eg, the natural environment ferns enjoy. Water as needed. Feed monthly during growing season.





Good Luck.
Reply:check out this site :-





http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/6745...





hope it helps you.