wood fern

Wood fern (Dryopteris lacera) require moist soil to thrive. It is best to water the soil rather than the foliage, and water deeply – once or twice per week – depending on the temperature, soil type, and humidity. During the hottest months – June through August – water the fern every 3 to 4 days. During the cooler months – September through May – water the fern every 5 to 7 days. You can check the soil moisture using your finger or a soil moisture meter. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and water your fern less.

Wood Ferns require an average of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day, spread out throughout the day. Indirect sunlight is suitable as well, such as early morning or late evening sun. Avoid locations where the plants will be in direct sunlight for more than 6 hours each day, as this can cause the fronds to dry out and turn brown. Wood Ferns should be placed in a partially shady area with direct or indirect sunlight for best growth and vitality.

Wood ferns should be pruned annually to maintain their shape and appearance. The best time to prune these plants is in late winter just before the new growth begins in the spring. When pruning wood ferns, remove any dead or damaged fronds, as well as any fronds that are excessively large or too dense. Cut the fronds at their base, where they meet the rhizome. Prune lightly so that the fern’s classic triangular shape is preserved. Trim away any dried fronds as necessary to maintain the shape of the plant. Avoid cutting off more than a third of the fern's fronds in any given year, as this can cause stress and damage to the plant.