Bird’s Nest “Leslie” Fern (Asplenium nidus ‘Leslie’) - Terrarium Care Sheet
Overview
The Bird’s Nest “Leslie” Fern is a unique cultivar of Asplenium nidus, known for its highly ruffled, wavy fronds that give it a lush, tropical appearance. It thrives in warm, humid environments, making it an excellent choice for terrariums.
 
Ideal Terrarium Conditions
✅ Best for: Closed terrariums (high humidity)
✅ Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
✅ Growth Rate: Moderate
✅ Max Size: 30–50 cm (height) but stays smaller in terrariums
 
Care Requirements
🌞 Light:
Prefers medium to bright, indirect light.
Can tolerate lower light but will grow more slowly.
Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the delicate fronds.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity:
Ideal Temperature: 18°C – 30°C (perfect for terrariums).
Humidity: 70%+ (thrives in high humidity).
If humidity drops too low, frond tips may brown.
💧 Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Use distilled, rainwater, or dechlorinated water to prevent mineral buildup.
Water around the base rather than into the center of the rosette to avoid rot.
🌱 Soil & Substrate:
Well-draining, moisture-retentive substrate like a peat-based mix with orchid bark and perlite.
A layer of sphagnum moss can help retain moisture.
🍽️ Feeding:
Light feeding every 4–6 weeks with a diluted liquid fertilizer (1/4 strength).
Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to weak growth.
✂️ Pruning & Maintenance:
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain health and appearance.
Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep them vibrant.
 
⚠️ Common Issues:
Brown leaf tips: Usually due to low humidity or underwatering.
Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Crispy edges: Too much direct light or dry air.
 
🌿 Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other humidity-loving terrarium plants like:
Fittonia (Nerve Plants)
Peperomia species
Miniature ferns
Mosses
 
Final Tips
Avoid disturbing the central crown, as this is where new fronds emerge.
A well-ventilated terrarium helps prevent fungal issues.
If growing in a bioactive setup, springtails can help manage excess moisture and prevent mold.
Would you like me to adjust anything for your specific setup? 😊