Boston ferns prefer light, loamy and airy soils. You can add compost to your potting mix for best results. Add perlite and peat moss to the soil to improve airflow to the roots. These also ensure proper drainage after watering. Your soil should have a proper balance of the soil amendments without using too much of anything.
Boston fern is drought tolerant thus it requires plenty of water. Always provide adequate water to keep your soil moist not too much or too little. Do not allow the soil to become too soggy by overwatering because this will kill the fern...
Use small amounts of fertilizer because the Boston fern is a light feeder. If the leaves turn pale or yellowish, it is an indication that the plant is lacking enough nutrients. Feed the fern frequently throughout its growing season. Use a dilute mixture of water-soluble fertilizer or provide a slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Boston ferns are pest-resistant but are susceptible to damage by slugs. If you notice a light slug infestation, pick the pests off the plant early in the moving or late evening. Drop them in a bucket of soapy water to eliminate them. You can also use other non-toxic methods to discourage pests. For example, sprinkle dry eggshells or dry coffee grounds, or non-toxic slug pellets around the slug.