Instead of seeds, ferns produce spores that can take a year or two to develop into a new plant. Brown tips usually result from the air being too hot and dry. They can also be caused by physical damage from wind or careless handling. Bleached out areas can be caused by too much sun. If there is healthier color lower or on the shady side, it indicates the bleached areas were the result of sunburn.
Hard water tends to leave a calcium build up on the fronds.
Use rainwater, distilled water or water from a dehumidifier. If the soil is waterlogged, it can cause drooping. Make sure the plant has good drainage and does not sit with water in the saucer. Ferns grown in low humidity may appear droopy. Usually this is caused by chilling.