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Understanding Our Container Sizes
At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.
Container Sizes
Quart
Plant age: 6 months to 1 year Best for:Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.
#1 Container
Plant age: 1 to 2 years Best for:Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.
#2 Container
Plant age: 2 to 3 years Best for:Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.
#3 Container
Plant age: 3 to 4 years Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.
#5 Container and Larger
Plant age: 4 to 5+ years Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.
Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?
Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.
Root Pouch Containers
Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.
There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:
Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.
Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.
The Heart Fern is a small, delicate houseplant that stands out for its shiny, leathery, heart shaped sterile fronds, a simple undivided leaf shape unlike most other ferns. A second, narrower type of frond stands up above the foliage on thicker stalks and carries the plant's spores, giving each mature plant two distinct leaf forms at once.
Give it bright, indirect light and consistently high humidity, since low humidity causes the leaves to curl and dry out. Its small size, 6 to 10 inches tall and wide, and love of moisture make it a natural fit for a terrarium or vivarium, though it also grows well as a small potted houseplant in a humid kitchen or bathroom. It thrives outdoors in USDA zones 10 through 11.
Choose your size at checkout, 4 or 6 inch, and bring home the Heart Fern for a small, distinctive addition to your plant collection.
Planting & Care
Light
Bright, indirect light is preferred.
Water
Use a moist, rich, organic soil mix, and avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
Humidity and Temperature
This fern needs consistently high humidity. Low humidity causes the leaves to curl and dry out, which is why it is so well suited to terrariums. Keep it at typical warm home temperatures and away from cold drafts.
Soil and Feeding
Use a moist, rich, organic soil mix with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Feed lightly with a diluted, balanced fertilizer during active growth.
Growth and Propagation
It is a compact, clumping, low growing fern well suited to container culture or terrarium planting. Propagate by dividing the small clumping crown, or from spores produced on the upright fertile fronds.
Pets
NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox lists this species non-toxic to cats and non-toxic to dogs.
Delivery and Shipping
Shipping Rates
Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected
Under $50
$9.99
$50 - $99.99
$14.99
$100 - $149.99
$16.99
$150 - $198.99
$24.99
$199+
FREE
✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee
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No. NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox lists this species non-toxic to cats and non-toxic to dogs.
Why are the leaves curling and drying out?
Low humidity is the most common cause. Increasing ambient humidity, with a pebble tray, humidifier, or terrarium, typically resolves it.
How is it propagated?
By dividing the small clumping crown, or from spores produced on the upright fertile fronds.
Why does my plant have two different looking leaf types?
This is normal. Broad, heart shaped sterile fronds handle photosynthesis, while narrower, arrow shaped fertile fronds standing above the foliage produce spores for reproduction.
How much light does it need?
Bright, indirect light. A kitchen or bathroom window with indirect light suits it well.
Is it good for a terrarium?
Yes, its small size and high humidity requirement make it a popular terrarium and vivarium plant.
Extend your plant protection to a full year with Growing & Glowing Guarantee Plus.
Every plant already includes our free 45-day guarantee. Adding Plus at checkout gives you extended coverage for properly planted and cared-for plants.
What you get:
Full store credit for the cost of your plant
Free shipping on your replacement order
Coverage for a full year from delivery
To file a claim: Send photos to support@naturehills.com or use our live chat.
Not covered: Improper planting, weather extremes, pest or wildlife damage, or plants outside their recommended zone. Annuals, bulbs, grass plugs, and hard goods are not eligible.
