Prune back in autumn or spring
Most Fern species should be cut down in autumn. It is sufficient to shorten the fronds to just above the ground. If you miss the cut in autumn, you have the next chance in spring. But be careful: In spring there is a risk that the new fronds will be injured when cutting!
also read
- Not all ferns are alike - the most important fern species
- Propagating ferns using cuttings - how does it work?
- The fern turns brown - why and what helps against it?
Foliage serves as natural winter protection
Some Fern species are considered sensitive when it comes to frost. These include, for example, the Asian ferns. It would be better to cut them in half. The lower area, which is left standing, catches the foliage to be laid over it as winter protection and 'holds it in place'.
Alternatively, the brown fronds can be cut off in autumn and placed on the root area. In addition to winter protection, the fronds serve as natural fertilizer. They slowly decompose and the formation of new fronds is stimulated and strengthened in spring.
Evergreen and evergreen ferns
Evergreen fern species should not be cut back. Only old, brown leaves need to be cleaned off. Evergreen ferns also look beautiful in winter. They need winter protection in the form of their fronds. Therefore, they will not be cut until the spring. It is best to do this shortly before the new fronds sprout so that they are not injured.
Cut fern to get cuttings
Furthermore, ferns can be cut to obtain cuttings that the Multiplication to serve. Such a cut should be done in the spring. Use clean tools and gloves to protect against the poisonous parts of the plant.
Please note the following points when propagating cuttings:
- only possible for ferns with above-ground rhizomes
- Cut the rhizome 4 cm behind the vegetation point with a knife
- Plant the rhizome in a pot with soil
- keep soil moistured
- Rooting time: 4 to 6 weeks
- plant out in a suitable location
Tips & Tricks
Indoor ferns are cut as well as garden ferns.
